Welcoming New Vocational Counselors to RVA!

By -
We'd like to welcome our newest members of The Choice Group Richmond team! 

Alexandra Thomas
 Vocational Counselor

Cliff Carter
 Vocational Counselor

Lakeshia Ward
 Vocational Counselor

Mary Chris Warner
 Vocational Technician

Nolan Speichinger
Vocational Counselor
Location: Richmond, VA, USA

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts!

Frances’ Success Story

By -
Image
Source: Ticket to Work Program, Social Security Administration . “Frances’ Success Story” , choosework.ssa.gov./library A Healing Journey Back to Work While at a local restaurant having lunch with her husband, Frances noticed a group of nurses in crisp white scrubs enjoying their lunch break together. It sounded like they were reflecting on something amusing from work or sharing an experience they had with a kind patient that day. They looked so happy, and it was this moment that sparked her desire to go further in her medical career and become a registered nurse. Frances was already a respiratory therapist and enjoyed a rewarding career, but becoming a nurse was her true goal. A few years later, Frances enrolled in school to pursue her dream. She became a registered nurse in 2004. At that time, Frances could have never imagined that in 2018, a medical crisis would pause everything… but only temporarily. “I think I’m having a stroke!” Frances said as she sat in her car alone with horri...
Read more

A Brother and Sister Team Find Independence with Supported Employment

By -
Image
Crystal and Steven MacArthur are the typical brother and sister: they enjoy watching football with their mom, attending their church, and spending time with their family, dog, and friends.  Despite some sibling eye-rolling, they look out for each other.  They also enjoy working.  When looking for part-time positions, they wanted an employer where they could stay long-term.  Crystal became a dishwasher for a staffing company at a Virginia university.  She initially worked in the Annex, a smaller cafeteria off campus.  She hand-washed dishes and eventually learned to use the automatic machine.  Because Crystal has a visual impairment, Crystal’s co-workers always looked out for her, letting her know when the floor was wet or if there were crates that might get in her way.  She became part of the team, discussing sports games and weekend plans while keeping up with the breakfast and lunch rush....
Read more

Love on the Spectrum: A Story of Neurodiverse Agency and Empowerment

By -
Image
Netflix’s documentary series Love on the Spectrum has earned a record five Emmy nominations this year, the most in its run to date. The series, following U.S. adults with autism as they pursue meaningful dating relationships, is recognized in five categories: Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program; directing; cinematography; casting; and picture editing. These honors surpass its previous tallies in 2022 and 2024. This milestone underscores the series' powerful commitment to authentic storytelling and amplifying neurodiverse voices, values that resonate deeply with The Choice Group’s core mission of supporting individuals in overcoming barriers to achieve fulfilling lives. Just as Love on the Spectrum spotlights neurodiverse adults navigating love and personal growth, The Choice Group fosters similar empowerment, helping clients explore their potential, build relationships, and shape their futures. Both the show and the organization highlight the importance of visibility, support,...
Read more

Building Confidence, Skills, and Independence: Dexter’s Journey

By -
Image
By: Billy Kraus, Employment Counselor Service Area: Virtual PEERS courses throughout Virginia When I first began working with Dexter in December 2024, he was a bright, kind, and creative young man with a goal that so many of our students share. He wanted meaningful work, real independence, and a chance to contribute in a workplace where he could thrive. What he needed most was support building his confidence and strengthening his communication skills so he could feel prepared stepping into competitive employment. Through several months of Pre-Employment Transition Services and Situational Assessments, we were able to better understand Dexter’s strengths, interests, and needs. From there, he participated in our PEERS Social Skills course. This turned out to be a truly pivotal experience for him. During the program, Dexter practiced social awareness, communication strategies, and real world interaction skills. Over time, I watched him gain confidence, find his voice, and begin to truly b...
Read more