What is Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Training?
Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training teaches individuals with visual impairments how to navigate safely in a variety of environments. This training is a physical and mental process that requires the individual to give their full attention, to be motivated to learn, and to commit oneself to practice and retain newly acquired skills. Instruction begins with vision assessment and the mutual development of travel goals.
For a brief overview of services, watch the video linked below:
What Can I Expect from O&M Training?
Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists tailor training to the individual’s specific travel needs, which may include: basic cane skills, guide techniques, and self-protective techniques. These trainings may take place in an individuals home, workplace, school, or community.
O&M Specialists start by getting the individual to understand foundational concepts, which expands as the individual's confidence grows. Depending on the individual's goals, instruction may include:
- Indoor travel techniques including stairs, room location, landmarks and clues
- Crossing small neighborhood streets and working up to lighted intersections
- Public transportation (Bus, Uber and Lyft)
- Sunshield evaluation to reduce indoor and outdoor glare
- Use of GPS
How Do I Qualify for O&M Training?
To qualify for Orientation and Mobility training, individuals must have an open case with either a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor or an Independent Living Counselor. The counselor then will make a referral to the appropriate O&M Specialist, who will contact the individual for an appointment. For more information, please call (800) 346-2115.
On-Line Resources:
Helpful videos demonstrating Guide Techniques
This is a series of 7 short videos. The average length of each mini-video is 2 minutes and 40 seconds. This Step-by-Step series by CNIB offers detailed information broken down into easily digestible bites. You can start with the first video and watch all 7 in the series. Or you can select one of the mini-videos if you just want to review a specific skill, such as seating or navigating narrow spaces. This video also offers suggestions for guiding people who are deaf-blind and demonstrates the universal sign to signal an emergency.
This 14-minute long video on sighted guide techniques also offers advice by people who are blind or visually impaired. It includes information on guiding people in settings such as restaurants, hotels, and public transit.
This video, which is around 11 minutes long, is a translation of the English version created by the Lighthouse Guild.
Last updated: March 2025
Visit these links for information about services:
Division of Blind Services
Meet the Staff