Challenge
*Caroline is a 32-year-old special education teacher from a large school district in California with 3 years of service so far. She was working at her job like normal when she was injured while teaching third grade math. Everything was okay when suddenly a child began screaming at Caroline after becoming agitated at having difficulty learning the material. The student began calling Caroline profane names and nonstop screaming at her. After calming down, Caroline went home, though she did not return to school the next day, as she began seeking treatment.
Solution
Carolina sought treatment with occupational health and was referred to psychological services. It was there that she was diagnosed with adjustment disorder and recommended to attend psychotherapy. While Caroline attended psychotherapy, she was given strict work restrictions including having no contact with the child who was involved in the incident out of fear and stress. Unfortunately, Caroline’s employer indicated they could not accommodate these restrictions.
Because of this, a return-to-work specialist, *Mikey, was assigned to the file to help Caroline to the best of her ability. Upon receiving the file, she soon completed her initial contact with Caroline, noting that Caroline expressed a lot of dissatisfaction as she wanted to return to work, but her employer could not accommodate. Creating a safe and open environment, Mikey spoke to Caroline with empathy and active listening skills. She advised she would follow-up with Caroline’s employer regarding this issue and call her back.
Result
Mikey contacted the employer to discuss the possibility of facilitating a light-duty accommodation. After hearing from Mikey and getting a better understanding of the problem, the employer was able to move the child to another classroom and away from Caroline. After this took place, the administrator agreed that Caroline could return to work. The next day, Mikey contacted Caroline, letting her know that she could return to work the next day. Caroline was extremely grateful for the assistance as well as the consideration for her safety. As of today, Caroline has completed her therapy, returned to full-duty work, and was released from care.
*Names changed for privacy purposes.