In this study, the author reviewed 32 studies, published in The Australian Journal of Rehabilitation Counselling (AJRC) from 1995 to 2000, that examined the authors' theoretical perspectives and how the authors and/or rehabilitation counsellors (RCs) as research participants defined quality practice. Their theoretical perspectives ranged from systems, psychological and psychosocial theories and specific disability or minority group issues. These theoretical perspectives were examined in relation to the methods of quality practice advocated by AJRC authors and/or their RC-research participants, these being: relationship building, assessment, goal setting, affective and vocational counselling, case management, self-care, and evaluation of services. Notwithstanding a commendable diversity in the range of theory and quality practice reported, several AJRC authors observed a lack of clarity regarding the professional identity of RCs; and the research papers lacked consistency and clarity in defining the characteristics of RC-participants. There were also opposing views concerning where RCs stood in relation to other stakeholders in the rehabilitation process. Further research is recommended to better understand the diversity evident in the roles and functions of Australian RCs in different rehabilitation settings.

Commonwealth Rehabilitation Services (CRS) Australia provides vocational assessment services to a client group whose rehabilitation is funded by Family and Community Services. Currently, the assessment of client skills, abilities and needs is based on the case management model. This model was expanded in the Assessment Plus study with the addition of a four-week assessment schedule and a series of educational group sessions. The program was conducted by a multi-disciplinary team at CRS Australia's Maroubra Unit, NSW. Forty-six CRS clients meeting inclusionary criteria formed the subject group for the study. Data was collected for the first eight months following implementation of the Assessment Plus program. The outcomes for study participants were compared with a matched group of 46 clients referred for assessment during the same period in 1999 prior to the implementation of Assessment Plus. The results of the study program showed a statistically significant increase in employment outcomes in the Assessment Plus group, with 12 (26%) clients recorded in employment compared with 3 (6%) in the control group. There was also an improvement in service delivery factors. These included a shorter assessment phase, an increase in the number of vocational goals identified and required reports filed. The results suggest that providing a time-based assessment framework plus intensive client involvement and participation improves vocational outcomes and service delivery.

The ability to secure and maintain gainful employment for people who have a mental disorder (such as schizophrenia) is limited and often complicated by personal, environmental and social barriers. The administration of inappropriate vocational evaluation tools for people who experience schizophrenia, has been identified as further contributing to this dilemma (Rybak, 1998). In an attempt to address this issue, Rybak (1998) developed a five-stage model for promoting successful vocational outcomes for people who experience schizophrenia. The purpose of this article is to review Rybak's model in terms of its appropriateness for this population. As a result of several shortcomings in Rybak's approach there is a need to develop an alternative vocational evaluation approach that is responsive to the characteristics unique to these individuals.

Risk factors associated with post-injury return to work are well documented. Less is known of the impact of PTSD on work outcomes. Information on worker and accident risk factors was obtained by survey, hospital records and personal interview with 40 road trauma survivors two years post-accident: Results suggest that while PTSD was an independent risk factor for negative work outcomes, PTSD also significantly contributed to the overall adverse impact of anxiety, depression and pain on work outcomes. The lack of improvement in work outcomes between from 12 weeks post-accident for those with PTSD indicated that early vocational interventions are critical for this population.

Rehabilitation counsellors have long been interested in back injuries among at-risk occupational groups such as nurses. Back injuries have a high prevalence among nurses, with enormous financial costs being incurred by health agencies and governments. Consequently the prevention of back injuries is a high priority for all concerned. Following a discussion of prevalence studies and risk factors for back injuries, we selectively review research on the effectiveness of multi-component (education and exercises) preventive programs designed specifically for nurses. While there is some empirical support for preventive programs, research in the area is still in its infancy. Looking at the broader picture, we conclude that preventive efforts must ultimately address the design of the workplace and the availability of proper equipment. Importantly, nursing unions and governments are moving towards “no lifting” policies and re-organisation of work practices. For effective rehabilitation, though, of those who do suffer back injuries, the adoption of a Workplace Disability Management approach (rather the traditional OH&S and return to work services provided by health and rehabilitation professionals) is advocated.