Vocational counselors
	Vocational counselors help claim managers decide whether an injured worker can return to their old job and, if not, whether they are able to work. They also may help eligible workers develop rehabilitation plans aimed at helping them return to the workforce.
Questions workers have: What does a vocational counselor do? First, they work with you, your doctor and your employer to see if they can help you return to work. If not, they investigate other job options with your employer. If that's not possible, the vocational counselor may assess your skills for a different job. Where can I read more about L&I's "Voc" program? See pages 11 and 12 of the Workers' Guide to Industrial Insurance Benefits (F242-104-000). What if I'm not qualified to do any available jobs in my area? If L&I determines that you don't have the transferable job skills necessary to work in your labor market, you may be eligible for training for a new line of work. Will L&I pay for me to attend college or a training school? Workers' compensation may cover the cost of a college course, combined with some on-the-job training, or a technical program. What if I live or move out of state? If you are currently receiving vocational services they may continue depending on your ability to participate. Your benefits could stop if you move while you are in an approved retraining plan. Relocation is strongly discouraged until after the completion of your plan. Your benefits could stop if you refuse a job offered by your former employer.
Did you know? Time-loss compensation and medical benefits are usually suspended or cut off if the worker fails to participate in the vocational retraining plan.