Vocational Evaluations

At San Antonio Pediatric & Adolescent Neuropsychology Specialists (SAPANS), we provide comprehensive vocational evaluations to assess an individual’s strengths, interests, and abilities in relation to career planning and workforce readiness. These evaluations are designed to support individuals who are preparing to enter the workforce for the first time or re-enter after an injury, disability, or significant life transition, including transitioning out of the military into civilian employment.

Who Can Benefit from a Vocational Evaluation?

Vocational evaluations are recommended for individuals ages 16 and up who need guidance in:

• Career exploration and planning

• Identifying strengths and work preferences

• Determining job readiness and areas for skill development

• Exploring accommodations needed for success in the workplace

• Returning to work after an injury, disability, or medical condition

• Transitioning from high school or college to employment

• Transitioning from military service to civilian employment

These evaluations provide clear, practical recommendations for career training, job placement, and workplace accommodations, ensuring individuals can achieve success in an environment suited to their abilities.

What to Expect in a Vocational Evaluation

Vocational evaluations typically take place over 3 to 5 consecutive days, with each session lasting approximately four hours to simulate a structured work schedule. The length of the evaluation depends on the individual’s needs, level of testing required, and complexity of the career exploration process.

1. Day 1: Intake Interview & Initial Testing

   • Individual and family (if applicable) meet with the evaluator to discuss work history, educational background, military experience (if relevant), medical conditions, and career interests.

   • Cognitive and academic testing is administered to assess learning abilities, problem-solving skills, and workplace competencies.

2. Day 2-4: Work Samples & Career Assessments

   • Hands-on work samples are used to assess an individual’s job-related skills, attention to detail, endurance, and task efficiency.

   • Career interest and aptitude testing helps identify strengths and potential job matches.

   • Evaluation of fine and gross motor skills, memory, and executive functioning to determine job accommodations if needed.

   • Additional testing may be conducted to further assess academic abilities, processing speed, or workplace readiness skills.

3. Day 5: Vocational Exploration, Goal Setting & Feedback

   • Individuals participate in career exploration activities, researching different fields and workplace expectations.

   • Personalized goal-setting discussions help identify next steps, whether in job training, education, or direct employment.

   • A feedback session is conducted to review initial results and discuss recommendations for career pathways and support services.

Final Report & Recommendations

After the evaluation, a comprehensive written report is provided with:
✔ Career and job recommendations based on strengths and interests
✔ Identified areas for skill-building or job accommodations
✔ Guidance on vocational training, education, or job coaching services
✔ Recommendations for workplace accommodations (if needed)

This report can be used for personal career planning, vocational rehabilitation programs, or as documentation for disability accommodations in employment or education settings. For military veterans, the report can help guide the transition into civilian employment, offering job recommendations that align with military skills and experience while identifying any necessary workplace accommodations.

Does Insurance Cover Vocational Evaluations?

Vocational evaluations are not typically covered by insurance, as they are considered educational and career-planning services rather than medical or mental health assessments. However, coverage can vary depending on the individual’s insurance plan and the reason for the evaluation. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine if any benefits apply to vocational services.

Other Ways to Fund a Vocational Evaluation

If insurance does not cover the evaluation, there are other options for funding:

• Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) – You may be able to request vocational evaluation services through Texas Workforce Commission. While we are not currently contracted with TWC, we are happy to pursue a single-case agreement if referred by them.

• Disability Insurance or Workers' Compensation – If you are returning to work after an injury or disability, you may be able to use disability insurance or workers' compensation to fund the evaluation. While we are not currently contracted with these programs, we are open to pursuing a single-case agreement if referred.

• Veterans Administration (VA) Benefits – Veterans transitioning into civilian employment or seeking vocational rehabilitation may be eligible for funding through VA benefits. While we are not currently contracted with the VA, we are willing to pursue a single-case agreement if referred for services.

• HSA/FSA Benefits – You may be able to use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for services, particularly if they are related to a medical diagnosis.

• Private Pay – Individuals can choose to pay out-of-pocket for vocational evaluations if other funding sources are unavailable.