A client-focused considering work model for people with emerging or episodic illnesses

BACKGROUND: One of the most challenging questions faced by individuals with emerging or episodic illnesses is how and when to make critical decisions regarding employment. Research indicates that people with disabilities often experience higher rates of career indecision and challenges to their vocational identity development compared to peers without disabilities. To help guide this complex process,Goldblum and Kohlenberg (2005)developed the client-focused considering work model to help guide vocational counseling for people living with HIV (CFCWM PLWH). This model provides a strong foundation for both professionals and clients to better understand this complex decision-making process and to have a framework to assess key issues and factors that may influence or help to inform the process. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to (a) provide an overview of the CFCWM PLWH, (b) evaluate the CDCWM PLWH, and (c) apply this model, with revision, to a broader range of individuals with episodic illness. Implications for rehabilitation research, service, program evaluation and policy are discussed. CONCLUSION: Implications for future rehabilitation research and practices are discussed.