DHHS is here is to Help You!
Having problems accessing service programs because you are hard of hearing
or deaf and need an accommodation?
Contact your Deafness Resource Specialist for assistance:
http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/providers/specialists.asp
DHHS Specialist Program
This DHHS program outreaches statewide to provide specialized services to
individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as assisting agencies
and other service providers to serve these consumers. The program, which
operates through contracts with local/regional service providers, offers
services in each of the 11 Health and Human Services regions of the state.
The DHHS Specialists team with DRS Counselors and other DARS agency staff to
ensure quality services are available to the targeted population.
Regionally-based specialists assist consumers in getting the services they
need from state and local government, service organizations, employers and
private entities while advocating within the communities to remove
communication barriers to render more access to the targeted groups The
program also addresses attitudinal and cultural barriers affecting the
populations which may hinder successful service delivery; provides
information and referral services; and may provide training geared toward
the consumers acquiring a better understanding of the laws which support and
protect them. Program services are available at no cost and include, but are
not limited to training on: sensitivity, communication issues and technology
awareness.
Deafness Resource Specialists (DRS) have the knowledge-base and
communication ability to work with persons who are deaf, hard of hearing and
late-deafened in the areas of advocacy, self-empowerment and sensitivity
training, as well as with Federal and State mandates on equal access to
services, including education and employment. In many instances, Specialists
work as liaisons between consumers and service providers on appropriate
service provision.
Hearing Loss Resource Specialists (HLRS) typically focus their services on
sensitivity training, communication strategies and assistive technology for
the workplace, home and beyond for more independence and self-sufficiency.
Specialists help locate resources when working with people who are hard of
hearing or who have an acquired loss of hearing.
To learn more about the DARS/DHHS Specialist Program in general:
http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/specialistpgm.shtml