Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a vision professional?

A: A vision professional is someone with specialized training to work with people with vision loss.  There are distinct certifications for CVI Assessors, O&M Specialist, Low Vision Optometrists, etc.

Q: What is a "vision teacher" and do I need one?

A:  A vision teacher is someone who has a Teacher's Certificate and a Master's Degree to work with students who are blind and/or visually impaired. Every student who is in an Alberta school should be provided support from a trained teacher of students with vision loss as per Ministry of Education documentation.

https://vision.alberta.ca/media/46157/ecep_blind_or_visually_impaired[1].pdf  If your child does not have a vision teacher, contact us and we can help you advocate.

Q: Who needs an Orientation and Mobility Specialist?

A: If you are not feeling safe or confident in your travels, you might need O&M training.  Even infants benefit from involvement of an O&M Specialist to scaffold future success.  An O&M Specialist is trained to specifically work with persons with vision loss to develop skills to move and travel within the environment safely, confidently, and independently.  

Q: Is this a free service?

A: No. All of our professionals work on a fee per service basis. Fees vary based on contractors individual rates, educational background, service being provided etc.  

Contact your benefits provider to see if you have coverage.  You won't find our services listed on their general menu but many companies will recognize vision loss rehabilitation.  

FSCD, PDD and AISH clients can speak to their casework to request our services.

We would be happy to speak to them to explain our work.  We know what you need isn't often understood by the general public.

Q: How many sessions would I need with a consultant?

A: That depends on your individual needs.  Please get in touch and we can discuss how we can help you.