ACCES-VR Mediation

What is ACCES-VR?


The Adult Career and Continuing Education Services Vocational Rehabilitation program (ACCES-VR) helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, maintain, or advance in employment. Services are designed to support eligible individuals in achieving their career goals and increasing independence through work. 


Depending on individual needs and eligibility, ACCES-VR may provide services such as: 

  • Career counseling and vocational guidance 
  • Job readiness and employment services 
  • Educational and training support 
  • Assistive technology and accommodations 
  • Benefits counseling 
  • Support services related to employment goals


ACCES-VR serves individuals whose disabilities create barriers to employment and who can benefit from vocational rehabilitation services. 

To learn more about eligibility requirements, available services, and how to apply, visit the official ACCES-VR website. 


Learn More About ACCES-VR  



Have a Concern About ACCES-VR Services?


Since 1999, the New York State Dispute Resolution Association (NYSDRA) has partnered with ACCES-VR to provide mediation services for individuals and ACCES-VR representatives who have disagreements about vocational rehabilitation services and decisions. 

 

Mediation gives you the opportunity to share your concerns, be heard, and actively participate in finding a solution. Rather than having decisions made for you, mediation allows you and ACCES-VR to work together to explore options, address concerns, and reach a mutually acceptable resolution 

 

Participation is voluntary and confidential. If an agreement is reached, it can become a binding resolution that provides clarity and a path forward. 

Why Choose Mediation?


Mediation puts you at the center of the conversation. It gives you the opportunity to share your perspective, discuss concerns openly, and participate in developing solutions that affect your vocational rehabilitation services. 

 

Mediation is: 

 

✓ Voluntary – Participation is your choice. 

✓ Confidential – Discussions remain private. 

✓ Impartial – Mediators do not take sides or make decisions for you. 

✓ Collaborative – You have a meaningful role in developing solutions. 

✓ Empowering – Your voice, concerns, and goals are part of the conversation. 

✓ Binding When Agreed Upon – Agreements can provide a clear and lasting path forward. 


What to Expect


Mediation is a confidential, informal process that brings together you and an ACCES-VR representative to discuss concerns in a respectful, structured environment. An impartial, professionally trained mediator guides the conversation, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to speak, listen, and be heard. 

 

The mediator does not take sides, make decisions, or determine who is right or wrong. Instead, they help facilitate productive discussions, identify common ground, and support both parties in developing solutions that comply with state and federal regulations. 

 

Through mediation, you can: 

  • Work together to identify mutually acceptable solutions 
  • Explore options that may not emerge through other processes 
  • Improve communication and build understanding 
  • Resolve disagreements in a respectful, collaborative setting 
  • Reach clear agreements that support future success 

Requesting a Due Process Hearing or Mediation

Step 1: Submit a Due Process Request Form (VR-711)

If you have a disagreement about a decision or action made by ACCES-VR that impacts your vocational rehabilitation services, you may submit a Request for Impartial Hearing by completing the VR-711 form. This form initiates ACCES-VR's impartial hearing process, which must be scheduled within 60 days of receipt.


Where to submit the VR-711 form:


  • Email to the ACCES-VR Quality Assurance and Monitoring Unit at VRQuality@NYSED.gov (preferred), OR
  • Deliver directly to your ACCES-VR counselor or the District Office where you receive services

Step 2: Choose the Resolution Path That Works Best for You

Once your request is received, you have options. Many individuals find mediation helpful because it provides an opportunity to discuss concerns directly, be heard, and participate in developing a solution:


  • Mediation - A confidential, voluntary process that gives you and ACCES-VR the opportunity to work together with a neutral mediator to find a mutually acceptable solution. 
  • Benefits:
  • Have your voice heard 
  • Participate in decision-making 
  • Explore creative solutions 
  • Reach agreements together 
  • Maintain control over outcomes 
  • Other Options
  • Informal Dispute Resolution
  • Meet with District Office management to discuss your concerns.
  • Impartial Hearing
  • Proceed with a formal hearing process where a hearing officer reviews the dispute and issues a decision.

Step 3: Begin the Mediation Process

If you choose mediation, ACCES-VR and your local Community Dispute Resolution Center will work with you to schedule a session that is convenient for everyone involved. 

 

Mediation sessions are arranged as quickly as possible and provide a confidential, respectful environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to share concerns, listen, and work toward resolution. 

Step 4: Work Toward a Resolution Together

During mediation, an impartial mediator guides the conversation and helps both parties explore solutions. The mediator does not make decisions or take sides. 

 

Instead, mediation gives everyone an equal opportunity to: 

 

  • Share concerns and perspectives 
  • Ask questions and clarify issues 
  • Explore options for resolution 
  • Develop solutions together 
  • Reach an agreement that supports future success 

 

Many participants find that mediation not only resolves disagreements but also improves communication and understanding moving forward. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Mediation Confidential?

    Yes. Mediation is a confidential process. The discussions that take place during mediation are private and are intended to create a safe environment where everyone can speak openly and work toward a resolution. 

  • Do I need an attorney?

    No. An attorney is not required to participate in mediation. Mediation is designed to be an informal process where you can discuss your concerns with an ACCES-VR representative in the presence of a neutral mediator. You may choose to seek advice or support from an attorney or advocate if you wish.

  • What if we don't reach an agreement?

    Not every mediation results in an agreement, and that's okay. If a resolution is not reached, you still have the right to pursue other available options, including an impartial hearing. Participating in mediation does not take away any of your due process rights. 

  • Will the mediator decide who is right?

    No. Mediators do not make decisions, take sides, or determine who is right or wrong. Their role is to facilitate productive discussions, help clarify concerns, and support both parties in exploring possible solutions. 

  • Can I still request a hearing

    Yes. Requesting mediation does not prevent you from pursuing an impartial hearing. In fact, mediation often takes place while the hearing process is pending. If mediation does not resolve the issue, you may continue with the hearing process. 

  • Who pays for mediation?

    There is no cost to participate in mediation. Mediation services are provided through ACCES-VR's partnership with the New York State Dispute Resolution Association (NYSDRA).