Empowering Individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) through Vision Rehabilitation & Mobility Training
At Allegheny Alliance, we are dedicated to providing specialized, person-centered therapies that enhance the independence, safety, and well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including those with visual impairments or blindness. As an Orientation & Mobility (O&M) and Vision Therapist, you will play a critical role in assessing, developing, and implementing mobility and vision rehabilitation plans that empower individuals to navigate their environments safely, confidently, and independently.
This position requires expertise in O&M techniques, assistive technology, and vision rehabilitation, knowledge of ODP regulations, and a commitment to supporting individuals in achieving greater autonomy and community participation.
Key Responsibilities
Assessment & Evaluation
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of an individual’s orientation, mobility, and functional vision skills to determine strengths, challenges, and support needs.
- Evaluate an individual’s ability to navigate safely indoors and outdoors, use mobility aids, and interact with environmental cues.
- Assess functional vision abilities, including visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual fields, and environmental adaptation needs, using standardized assessment tools.
- Ensure assessments align with ODP standards and waiver requirements for habilitation and vision rehabilitation services.
Individualized Intervention Planning
- Develop personalized O&M and vision therapy intervention plans based on an individual’s goals, preferences, and environmental needs.
- Identify barriers to independent travel, participation in daily activities, and community engagement.
- Implement strategies to enhance orientation, spatial awareness, and safe mobility skills in residential, workplace, and community settings.
- Incorporate therapy plans into the individual’s ISP (Individual Support Plan) in compliance with ODP regulations.
Orientation & Mobility Training
- Provide instruction in orientation skills, such as spatial awareness, cardinal directions, route planning, and map reading, to improve an individual’s ability to navigate independently.
- Teach mobility techniques, including:
- Cane travel (e.g., two-point touch, constant contact, diagonal technique).
- Sighted guide techniques for safe, guided navigation.
- Electronic travel aids and public transportation navigation.
- Environmental awareness and hazard detection for safe mobility.
- Implement sensory-based and adaptive mobility training for individuals with dual sensory impairments (deafblindness).
Vision Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology
- Offer vision rehabilitation services focusing on:
- Compensatory strategies for vision loss.
- Adaptive daily living techniques (e.g., labeling, tactile markers, contrast enhancement).
- Training in the use of low vision aids such as magnifiers and specialized lighting.
- Recommend and train individuals on assistive technology devices, including:
- Screen readers and magnification software.
- GPS-based navigation tools for low vision travel.
- Braille and tactile communication aids.
- Assist in environmental modifications to enhance accessibility and independence in home, work, and community settings.
Education & Support for Individuals & Caregivers
- Educate individuals, families, and caregivers on:
- The impact of visual impairment on daily activities and mobility.
- Safety considerations and environmental adaptations.
- Community-based resources, funding options, and assistive technology services.
- Provide hands-on training for caregivers and staff on guiding techniques, communication strategies, and mobility assistance.
Documentation, Compliance & Progress Monitoring
- Maintain accurate, detailed records of assessments, intervention plans, therapy sessions, and progress reports in accordance with ODP and Medicaid documentation standards.
- Monitor individual progress, therapy outcomes, and effectiveness of interventions to inform treatment modifications.
- Ensure compliance with HIPAA, ODP, and Medicaid regulations for vision and mobility services.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration & Advocacy
- Collaborate with:
- Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Behavioral Specialists, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide comprehensive, person-centered care.
- Educational teams and employers to ensure accessibility and inclusion in learning and vocational environments.
- Community organizations to advocate for accessible transportation, workplace accommodations, and public accessibility.
Professional Development & Continuing Education
- Stay up-to-date with advancements in O&M training techniques, assistive technology, and vision rehabilitation.
- Maintain certifications and licensure through continuing education, workshops, and professional training.
- Participate in research, quality improvement initiatives, and best-practice studies to enhance service delivery and outcomes.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Certification
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Orientation and Mobility, Vision Rehabilitation Therapy, Special Education, Rehabilitation Teaching, or a related field.
- Certification or Licensure as one of the following:
- Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS) – Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP).
- Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) – ACVREP.
- Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) – ACVREP (preferred but not required).
- Other ODP-approved vision rehabilitation credentials.
- CPR/First Aid Certification preferred.
Experience & Skills
- Experience providing orientation & mobility or vision rehabilitation services to individuals with IDD, autism, neurological conditions, or sensory impairments.
- Strong knowledge of vision anatomy, eye conditions, and functional vision assessments.
- Proficiency in low vision aids, Braille, screen readers, and electronic navigation systems.
- Experience modifying therapy techniques to meet the needs of individuals with multiple disabilities.
- Excellent interpersonal, teaching, and problem-solving skills to support individuals and caregivers.
Additional Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (travel to therapy sites may be required).
- Ability to work in community, residential, and workplace settings as part of a person-centered support model.
Why Join Allegheny Alliance?
✅ Transform Lives – Help individuals build independence, navigate their communities, and gain confidence in mobility and daily living skills.
✅ Collaborative & Supportive Team – Work alongside dedicated professionals committed to inclusion and accessibility.
✅ Professional Growth – Access ongoing training, certification opportunities, and interdisciplinary learning experiences.
✅ Flexible Work Environment – Provide therapy in residential, community, and workplace settings to support real-world application of skills.
Apply today and be part of a team dedicated to empowering individuals with vision impairments and mobility challenges!
