Compensated Work Therapy (CWT)
Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) is a vocational service provided by the VHA under 38 U.S.C. 1718. It falls under the broader category of VHA Vocational Rehabilitation Services, which includes clinical vocational services and employment assistance in collaboration with various partners. CWT includes multiple treatment models aimed at enhancing a Veteran's quality of life by helping them acquire job skills, develop work habits, and restore self-esteem and self-worth.
Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) at VA Fargo is Comprised of:
Transitional Work (TW)
Supported Employment
Compensated Work Therapy
CWT As a Veteran
Veterans working can enjoy several benefits, including receiving a regular paycheck and gaining independence. Employment boosts Veterans' self-esteem and provides a sense of purpose. Additionally, holding a satisfying job can improve health by reducing stress-related illnesses and helping veterans cope with physical or mental disabilities.
CWT As an Employer
The Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) program offers a cost-effective solution to manage labor costs, enhance service delivery, and maintain quality standards. This national vocational rehabilitation program helps Veterans gain competitive employment, earn a living wage, and improve their self-esteem. CWT staff collaborate with facility management and HR personnel to fill staffing gaps with prescreened workers. Partnerships with local businesses and government agencies are established through Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs).
CWT - Transitional Work(TW)
The Transitional Work (TW) component of the Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) program provides Veterans with recovery-oriented vocational rehabilitation services in real work environments, helping them transition to meaningful employment. TW assignments are tailored to each Veteran's recovery goals, skills, and interests, and can take place in community settings, other federal entities, or VA facilities. Participants are not considered Federal employees.
The program includes regular vocational counseling sessions every two weeks, utilizing techniques such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. It offers job search support, including help with applications, resume development, and interview preparation, as well as job retention skill development, focusing on communication, feedback acceptance, teamwork, hygiene, healthy living, mindfulness, and problem-solving.
CWT - Supported Employment (SE)
Supported Employment (SE) CWT: SE specifically helps Veterans secure meaningful, paid employment while providing ongoing support throughout their rehabilitation and recovery. It enables Veterans with significant barriers to work to pursue both full- and part-time employment with proper supports and accommodations.
VA Fargo Compensated Work Therapy Program Point of Contact
Brandon Matzke
Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
VA Fargo health care
Phone:
Email: Brandon.Matzke@va.gov