After divorce, everything changes. The career that once seemed fulfilling is no longer satisfying. The job that once adequately cared for you and your entire family is no longer adequate now that one household has become two. And, the stay-at-home mom who once was able to devote her entire attention to caring for her children on a full time basis must now consider entering the workforce for the first time in years. Facing these changes can be intimidating, but with the help of a vocational counselor, opening up new career possibilities post-divorce may be less stressful than expected.
A vocational counselor or vocational expert is a professional who evaluates the employability of an individual by analyzing that individual's abilities, interests, education, experience and other qualifications against the backdrop of the current job market. Once this evaluation is complete, the vocational counselor will then assess what type of job the individual will most likely obtain or which career would be most suitable, and how much the individual can expect to earn. Although some may be aware of how vocational experts are used during divorce litigation to prove the earning capacity and employability of one spouse for the purposes of child support and alimony awards, this is not the only purpose that a vocational counselor may serve in the context of divorce. Even post-divorce, a vocational counselor can help newly divorced individuals rebuild and restructure their careers in a way that will better compliment their new lives.
Below are just a few examples of how a vocational counselor can assist a newly single individual make necessary career transitions post-divorce. To contact the Georgia vocational counselor that will best suit your needs and ambitions, see the American Board of Vocational Experts' member directory page.
- A vocational counselor can provide guidance on re-entering the job market in a less than stable economy.
- A vocational counselor can offer advice on the steps necessary to successfully start a business.
- A vocational counselor might help decide if it's necessary to go back to school or receive additional vocational training to accomplish a career goal.
- Vocational experts provide realistic assessments of employability and earning potential.
- Vocational experts are also equipped to offer advice and suggestions concerning a wide range of career options and how to make the transition from one career path to another.