Jeani Freeman Price
Jeani's path to becoming a rehabilitation professional...I worked for a State residential facility for physically and mentally challenged adults and children. I participated in devising program plans, IEP's and work goals. After my 12 years of experience in this medical capacity I obtain a counseling degree and started work for Intracorp, a company specializing in disability management. It was with Intracorp where I obtained my certifications and began performing a dual role of a Medical Case Manager and a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. After a period of time I developed my role as an Independent Practitioner in Disability Management and Rehabilitation Counseling. I have owned and operated my business, "Expert Case Management" now for 15 years.
Jeani's rehabilitation education...
I obtained my Associates Degree in Nursing in 1978, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree in 1980 and my Master of Arts in General Counseling in 1984. I obtained my Certification in Disability Management ( CDMS) in 1991, my Certification in Case Management (CCM) in 1993, my Certification in Rehabilitation Counseling ( CRC) in 1993, and my License in Rehabilitation Counseling (LRC) in 1995. Although I am not a Certified Life Care Planner, I have attended training in Life Care Planning and have written and testified on several Life Care Plans.
How Jeani's practice developed...
As above I developed my practice with two major areas of study in Nursing or science and the arts or counseling. It is this combination that provides me with the objectivity yet sensitivity to adequately and accurately manage cases varying both type and degree of injury/disability.
Jeani's "Ah-Ha!" moments that have shaped or changed her rehabilitation career.
I was awarded the Success Story of the Year by Intracorp in 1990. I prepared a Life Care Plan for a catastrophically injured child and assisted him with obtaining funding through the Vaccination Compensation Act. His family was able to provide equipment and home modifications with his award from his case.
Jeani's outside interests that have inform/influence her work...
I worked for a State Facility and helped to devise work plans for challenged individuals. The plans took into consideration the individual's severe mental and physical challenges or obstacles necessary to overcome to make progress toward the least restrictive level of care and living environment. It was my work at this facility in educating care providers and participating in multidisciplinary teams that helped me to discover and develop my direction in rehabilitation.
How IARP has served Jeani's career...
I have been a member of IARP since 1995. Through the years, IARP has provided excellent educational conferences and timely updates on national events in the field of rehabilitation. I have been a member on all three levels and through meetings on the district or state level I have been updated on legislative changes and how these changes would impact Vocational Rehabilitation and Case Management. I have served as an area representative on the State level which provided an excellent learning opportunity.
Jeani's advice to folks considering a career as a rehabilitation professional...
The course for consulting as a rehabilitation or case management professional is a long and arduous one. The educational preparation is only the beginning. I would recommend anyone venturing into this field to work for a Disability Management or Rehabilitation Consulting/Case Management Company, in the role of Case Manager and or Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for a minimum of two years. Obtaining relevant credentials is essential for any prospect considering a forensic role. Participating in professional organizations and staying up-to-date on the changing role of rehabilitation is essential in professional development with "Professional " being the operative word. The "profession" is based on an ethical foundation that ensures good practice. Be consistent and well-informed.
