I am writing to express my objection to the Proposed Waiver Services Section 12 VAC 30-120. Anyone who has had any experience working with the disabled clients whom we serve would know that proposing such limited qualifications for Employment Specialists would be very detrimental to the clients' best interests. Employment Specialists do far more than locate employment and provide job training. We deal with clients who often have a myriad of problems and special needs. Employment Specialists serve as mental health counselors, negotiators, problem-solvers and very vocal ADVOCATES. Although I have a master's degree (in education) and have worked with disabled people for almost 30 years, I feel that I will never reach the point that I do not need further training! Our clients have many needs, and they certainly DO NOT need the services of someone serving as their Employment Specialist who  is not highly trained and knowledgeable about a lot of areas that affect their very lives and well being.

Sharon Williams, M.Ed.