A model using career interest test results and career specific information to formulate vocational recommendations was tested on four head trauma patients who had been involved in car or motorcycle accidents at least 2 years before. As part of a psychological evaluation, patients completed the Self Directed Search (SDS), the Adjective Checklist (ACL), and the Problem Checklist (PCL). A structured interview was also conducted. Results showed that, overall, the Self Directed Search was foremost in offering several markers around which further recommendations and vocational explorations could focus. The PCL indicated problems only in a gross sense, underemphasizing attention, memory, and interpersonal and organizational problem areas. Too many items or scales hindered the utility of the ACL. The findings suggest the need for early vocational data collection and consistent follow-up procedures. By reviewing the SDS indices and assessing premorbid career adjustment, those at risk for nonreturn to work could be identified. At a later date the PCL and a brief interview could be administered if vocational adjustment problems appeared. (Case studies for the four patients are included.) (JAC)