TPC-Journal-V4-Issue2

“Using a Cognitive Information Processing Approach to Group Career Counseling with Visually Impaired Veterans” by Lauren K. Osborne Unemployment continues to be a growing concern among both civilian and veteran popu- lations. As 14% of the veteran population currently identify as disabled due to service, this population is growing in its need for specialized vocational rehabilitation. Specifi- cally in Veteran Affairs’ Blind Rehabilitation Centers, where holistic treatment is utilized in treatment and rehabilitation, career services may be useful in improving quality of life of visually impaired veterans. A group approach to career counseling with visually im- paired veterans is discussed using the principles and theory of the Cognitive Information Processing (CIP) approach set forth by Sampson, Reardon, Peterson, and Lenz. This ap- proach emphasizes metacognitions, self-knowledge, occupations knowledge, and the use of a decision-making cycle to improve career decision states and decrease negative career thinking. A group outline is provided and discussion of special considerations and limita- tions are included. With the second Fort Hood shooting in the past 5 years, it is critical that professional counselors be prepared to assist military personnel and their families, as well as aid their communities with the coping and adjustment process. It is my hope that these articles will help counselors with this purpose. Dr. Stephen Sharp Guest Editor April 2014 x