APT Vocational Services (AVS)
One Long Wharf Drive, Suite 321
New Haven, CT 06511
(203) 781-4670


Director - Vicki Dyar, BS

Treatment and Population Served: AVS provides specialized vocational rehabilitation to individuals with substance abuse and/or mental health issues. AVS served over 400 individuals last year in our New Haven office and our inpatient division, DAYTOP. Staff provided individualized services to begin work restoration activities. Within the AVS structure are case managers who work with specific populations: SAGA recipients, DSS recipients, Homeless Dually Diagnosed individuals. Case Managers focus both on placement in employment and on barriers to employment that include: homelessness, lack of transportation, lack of appropriate clothing, lack of childcare, and healthcare. AVS staff work to alleviate these barriers before a formal job search begins. Referrals to community resources such as Hill Health Center, Regional Workforce Development Board, Department of Labor, Gateway's child care center and Shelter Plus Care are utilized to increase the clients' marketability.


What is Expected While in Treatment:
Clients are expected to participate in their vocational planning. The only requirement for services is that the client is enrolled in a program of recovery which can include 12-Step programs. Relapse triggers are discussed as individuals need that counseling. Clients who are continuously relapsing are referred to a more intensive treatment program. Clients who continue to use drugs or are not medication compliant for their mental health issues are put on hold for 30 days. A collaborative treatment team meeting is called with the client, treatment provider and vocational staff to discuss options to help him/her get back on track.

Treatment Expectations: Clients can expect to be treated with dignity and respect as customers who have chosen our program. They are encouraged to attend various groups they can benefit from, and choose the parts of the program in which they want to participate. They select what parts of our programs they want to participate in. All services are voluntary. If a client feels they are not benefiting from our services, AVS staff provide information and referrals to alternative vocational programs. A Client Advisory Board was developed last year to give clients a voice in our services. All clients are invited to participate in our quarterly meeting.

Special Services Offered: Staff acts as advocates for clients in all appropriate arenas. AVS staff act as mobile Employment Assistance Program counselors. Clients may move jobs but their AVS counselor remains the same to assist them with job maintenance.

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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 APT Foundation, Inc.
One Long Wharf Drive, Suite 321
 New Haven, CT 06511
Telephone 203-781-4600
FAX 203-781-4624