Abstract
This project was developed to address the needs of local Deaf and Hard of Hearing student job seekers, at American River College, Sacramento, California. Those clients who are eligible and receive services through the Disabled Students Programs experience a lack of accessibility to DSPS Counselors who have knowledge of Deaf Culture and the ability to communicate using American Sign Language. Data was compiled as a result of library database searches JSTOR, EBSCO host, SAGE, ERIC, personal interview, text book references and related government internet resources. A DSPS Counselor’s Guide, was developed to address the needs of the DSPS Counselors at American River College. The limited accessibility of the DSPS counselors with training and knowledge of Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients due to communication deficits among the majority of DSPS counselor’s, is the matter the author seeks to resolve. The guide places emphasis upon the empowerment of the DSPS counselor through education. Counselors through the training will become empowered and, consequently, more accessible to their Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients. By empowering DSPS counselors to be capable in their approach to communication with Deaf and Hard of Hearing student clients, those clients will realize the benefits of reciprocal communication with their counselors and, ultimately, become more greatly empowered and competitive with their hearing peers. Legislation, and employment topics relevant to the above, as well as tools and strategies for personal and professional development are included in the guide.