Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is part of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Its mission is to support individuals with disabilities in achieving employment and greater independence.
A Guide to DVR Services and How Columbia Ability Alliance Can Help
For individuals with disabilities who want to find and maintain meaningful employment, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) provides critical support throughout Washington State.
DVR is a state program that helps people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and keep jobs that match their skills, interests, and goals. Through individualized planning, job training, and employment supports, DVR empowers individuals to pursue greater independence and long-term success in the workforce.
At Columbia Ability Alliance, we often partner with DVR to help individuals in the Tri-Cities region build the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed in competitive employment.
What Is the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)?
Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is part of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Its mission is to support individuals with disabilities in achieving employment and greater independence.
DVR works with each participant to create an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) that outlines career goals and the services needed to reach them.
Services may include:
- Career counseling and guidance
- Job exploration and career planning
- Vocational training or education support
- Resume and interview preparation
- Job placement assistance
- Workplace accommodations
- Assistive technology
- Ongoing job retention support
These services are designed to help individuals overcome employment barriers and move toward sustainable, meaningful careers.
How Columbia Ability Alliance Partners with DVR
Columbia Ability Alliance works closely with DVR to provide local, hands-on employment support for individuals in the Tri-Cities community.
While DVR provides case management, career planning, and funding for services, community organizations like Columbia Ability Alliance deliver many of the direct employment supports that help individuals succeed.
Through this partnership, our team may provide:
- Job readiness training
- Vocational skill development
- Community-based work experiences
- Job coaching and workplace support
- Employer partnerships and job placement assistance
This collaboration allows individuals to receive both state-level resources through DVR and personalized, community-based support through Columbia Ability Alliance.
Our goal is to help participants build real-world skills, connect with inclusive employers, and move confidently toward long-term employment.
Step-by-Step: The DVR Process
If you or a loved one are considering DVR services, understanding the process can help make the experience smoother. While each individual’s journey may look slightly different, most participants follow these general steps:
1. Apply for DVR Services
The process begins with submitting an application to DVR. Applications can be completed online, by phone, or through a local DVR office.
2. Eligibility Determination
A DVR counselor reviews medical or disability documentation to determine eligibility. The focus is on whether the disability creates barriers to employment and whether DVR services can help.
3. Meeting with a DVR Counselor
Once eligibility is confirmed, participants meet with a DVR counselor to discuss their goals, interests, and strengths.
4. Create an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)
Together with the counselor, participants develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) that outlines career goals and the services needed to achieve them.
5. Participate in Employment Services
Participants may receive services such as job training, work experience, or support through community providers like Columbia Ability Alliance.
6. Employment and Ongoing Support
Once a job is secured, DVR and partner organizations may continue providing support to help ensure long-term success and stability in the workplace.
DVR Eligibility Basics
To qualify for DVR services in Washington, individuals generally must:
- Have a physical, intellectual, developmental, or mental health disability
- Experience barriers to obtaining or maintaining employment because of that disability
- Be able to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services
Documentation may include:
- Medical or psychological evaluations
- School records or Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- Previous vocational assessments
- Documentation of disability-related limitations
If documentation is unavailable, DVR counselors may help coordinate assessments to determine eligibility.
Getting Started with DVR and Columbia Ability Alliance
Navigating employment services can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Columbia Ability Alliance works with individuals, families, and referral partners to help people understand the DVR process and access the services that can support their employment goals.
If you are exploring DVR services in Washington or want to learn how Columbia Ability Alliance can support your employment journey, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to learn more about employment services and community-based vocational support in the Tri-Cities.