Helping Hand Questions for CESP

The CESP certification is based on the principles of individualized, integrated, and competitive employment for people with disabilities1. One of the core values of this approach is to promote the self-determination and empowerment of the individuals being supported2. This means that the employment support professionals should respect the preferences, choices, and goals of the individuals, and help them develop the skills and confidence to achieve their desired outcomes2.

The options A, B, and C are examples of reasonable supports that align with these principles. They provide Susan with visual, auditory, or human cues that can help her remember the sequence of her tasks, without interfering with her autonomy or productivity. They also allow her to use the tools or strategies that work best for her learning style and preferences. These supports can be faded over time as Susan becomes more familiar and comfortable with her job3.

The option D, however, is an example of an unreasonable support that violates these principles. It implies that the store manager does not trust Susan to perform her tasks correctly, and that he or she needs to monitor and control her every hour. This can undermine Susan’s self-esteem, motivation, and satisfaction with her job. It can also create a negative or hostile relationship between Susan and her manager, and affect her integration and inclusion in the workplace. Moreover, it can be disruptive and inefficient for both Susan and the manager to have such frequent check-ins, especially if they interfere with their other duties or responsibilities. References:

This answer reflects the core values and principles of employment support professionals, who believe that all people have the right to work in the general workforce and earn competitive wages. Employment support professionals also respect the self-determination and empowerment of job seekers, and provide individualized services that match their interests, goals, and abilities. The other answers are not appropriate because they suggest limiting the job seeker’s options, segregating them from the community, or lowering their expectations. References:

• Domain 1 Application of Core Values and Principles to Practice1234
• Domain 2 Individualized Employment and Career Planning1234

 The LEAST appropriate response is to discuss this with him publicly so that his co-workers and manager know that you have addressed the concern. This would violate his right to privacy and dignity, and could also damage his relationships with his colleagues and employer. It could also increase his stress and anxiety, which could worsen his behavior. A better approach would be to speak with him privately and respectfully, and try to understand the reasons behind his rudeness. You could also observe him at work and provide feedback and support as needed. You could also ask the manager how she normally handles discipline with her employees and encourage her to treat him like everyone else, as long as it is fair and consistent. References:

• CESP Candidate Handbook, page 13, Domain 4: Workplace and Related Supports, Task 4.2: Provide ongoing support to the individual and employer to maintain employment, Knowledge of 4.2.1: Strategies for providing feedback and support to the individual and employer
• CESP- ASPE Flashcards, card 66, Job Coaching, Definition: The process of providing on-the-job training and support to individuals with disabilities to help them learn and perform the work and adjust to the work environment.

 A fading plan is a strategy that the employment support professional (ESP) uses to gradually reduce the amount and frequency of support that they provide to the job-seeker, while increasing the use of natural supports from the employer and co-workers12. The goal of a fading plan is to help the job-seeker work independently and integrate socially in the workplace, without relying on the ESP for assistance3. A fadingplan should be individualized, flexible, and based on the job-seeker’s needs and preferences4.

The other options are not the best choices for supporting the job-seeker to work independently. A benefits plan is a document that outlines the impact of employment income on the job-seeker’s public benefits, such as Social Security or Medicaid5. While a benefits plan can help the job-seeker make informed decisions about working, it does not directly address the issue of reducing the ESP’s support. A risk assessment is a process of identifying and evaluating the potential hazards and threats that the job-seeker may face in the workplace, such as health and safety risks, discrimination, or harassment6. While a risk assessment can help the ESP and the employer mitigate or prevent these risks, it does not directly address the issue of increasing the job-seeker’s independence. A job skills assessment is a tool that measures the job-seeker’s abilities, interests, and aptitudes for different types of work7. While a job skills assessment canhelp the ESP and the job-seeker find a suitable job match, it does not directly address the issue of decreasing the ESP’s intervention.

References: 1: Fading and Support Strategies for Employment Success 2: Natural Supports and Fading Background Information 3: Job Site Fading 4: NATURAL SUPPORTS – FADING PLAN 5: Benefits Planning Services | U.S. Department of Labor 6: Risk Assessment | Health and Safety Authority 7: Job Skills Assessment - CareerOneStop