Tools for the TVR Journey
The third point of the star quilt includes:
- comprehensive assessment (“Great Eight”)
- intake/initial interview
- application
- case note documentation
TVR projects may differ in how they gather information to determine eligibility. Some conduct separate assessments for each step, while others combine them for efficiency. There is no single “correct” method. What matters is choosing an approach that best supports both TVR staff and participants.
Building trust from the very first interaction is essential. Small but meaningful gestures, such as greetings, handshakes, offering refreshments, or light conversation, help participants feel welcomed and at ease. Many applicants begin the TVR journey feeling vulnerable, uncertain, and anxious about whether services will truly support their goals. A respectful, culturally sensitive approach at intake sets the tone for a positive relationship.
Eligibility determination begins with understanding the individual’s impairments and how these create barriers to employment. This process is anchored in the comprehensive assessment, often called the “Great Eight.” These include the applicant’s (i) strengths, (ii) resources, (iii) interests, (iv) priorities, (v) concerns, (vi) abilities, (vii) capabilities, and (viii) informed choice.
Through this assessment, counselors and participants explore strengths, abilities, interests, and priorities, while also identifying challenges that may limit progress. The information gathered not only fulfills Federal requirements but also provides a roadmap for guiding participants through their TVR journey.
To formally apply for TVR services, an individual must
- complete and sign a TVR application or request services;
- provide personal information and medical documents required for eligibility determination; and
- be available to complete the assessment process.
TVR staff must determine eligibility within 60 days, except when
- exceptional and unforeseen circumstances occur beyond staff control, requiring an agreed-upon extension; or
- a trial work experience is deemed necessary to assess an individual’s abilities and potential for competitive employment (per § 361.42(e)).
Core Practices
Conduct a Comprehensive Assessment (“Great Eight”)
- Explore the participant’s strengths, priorities, abilities, and informed choice.
- Use culturally responsive methods that honor Tribal traditions and community context.
- Treat the assessment as an ongoing reference point, not a one-time formality.
Facilitate a Trust-Building Intake Interview
- Approach intake with cultural sensitivity, avoiding stereotypes and rigid methods.
- Establish trust through meaningful questions and respectful gestures.
- Incorporate the “Great Eight” into the conversation to deepen understanding.
Manage the Application Process
- Confirm applications are complete with signed forms, supporting documentation, and participant availability.
- Complete eligibility determinations within 60 days, with exceptions only for agreed-upon extensions or trial work experiences.
- Support re-application or review requests when appropriate, and consult leadership in cases involving safety concerns.
Maintain Effective Case Note Documentation
- Record participant progress, actions, and observations clearly and promptly.
- Integrate cultural context into notes to reflect the participant’s story.
- Include provider details, assessments, and next steps in the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE).
- Protect confidentiality by securing records and adhering to retention requirements.
Click the star quilt links to learn how to implement each phase of the TVR journey.
TVR Journey
The TVR Journey is available in a downloadable format that can be printed.
TVR Journey Guide
The TVR Journey Guide webpage contains files and tools that will help guide you through each phase of the TVR Journey.