Package Description

Class Dates: October 16, 2023 – December 4, 2023

An SSVE since 1995, Dr. Leslie Freels Lloyd teaches beginning and intermediate SSVEs how to provide Vocational Expert testimony in a straightforward, nuts-and-bolts fashion. The course is co-taught by Dr. Lloyd and Dr. Taylor, who have a combined teaching experience of 34 years and Social Security testimony experience of 31 years.

This comprehensive course begins with an explanation of Social Security Disability law and methodically leads the participant through how to provide defensible and exemplary SSVE testimony. Topics include preparation for hearings/testimony, conducting transferable skills analysis, answering hypothetical questions, anticipating and thriving under cross-examination, and how to use appropriate robust resources. Real-world examples are provided for all aspects of a hearing, and participants will practice testimony via role-playing, with constructive feedback provided. The Art of testimony is addressed, including testifying about issues not addressed in the DOT. The class has a unit dedicated specifically to the use of ORS data in SSVE testimony. The participant leaves the course with a toolbox full of vital tools that result in being able to skillfully testify.

The course is taught over 8 weeks. There are weekly online assignments and self-administered quizzes, weekly online Discussions with the instructors, and 2 ZOOM casts during the class. Participants will engage in SSVE testimony role-play and receive constructive feedback to improve their testimony.

This course is excellent for new SSVEs, those who have newly attained their BPA, or those who want to update their skills.  

CEUS - 10 Regular CEUs and 3 Ethics CEUs, for a total of 13 CEUs, provided by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification