In a recent episode of The Dr. Michelle Show: Mind Matters, host Dr. Michelle explored the transformative impact of the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work (TTW) Program with clinical psychologist Dr. Robin McCoy. Dr. McCoy shared her journey from an IT career cut short by a breast cancer diagnosis to becoming a successful business owner and advocate for mental health.
Dr. McCoy was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2019, a turning point that coincided with the loss of her IT management position. She faced significant challenges re-entering the workforce, including discrimination tied to her medical history. Despite these obstacles, Dr. McCoy rebuilt her career through the TTW Program, which is designed to help Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries return to work while maintaining important benefits like Medicare.
“I didn’t know programs like this existed,” said Dr. McCoy, recounting how Allsup Employment Services introduced her to TTW. “They coached me, supported me, and gave me a path to transition back into the workforce.”
The TTW Program offers a trial work period and allows participants to earn income without immediately forfeiting SSDI benefits. Participants retain health insurance coverage for up to eight years and can reinstate benefits if they’re unable to continue working. “This program provided a soft landing instead of a hard one,” Dr. McCoy said.
Dr. McCoy’s story underscores the broader benefits of TTW for SSDI recipients. The program offers personalized support, including job coaching and career planning, empowering participants to overcome barriers and re-enter the workforce with confidence. According to estimates, 1.4 million individuals on SSDI could qualify for the program, with 20% expressing a desire to work but uncertainty about how to start.
Now the owner of Life Centers, a thriving group therapy practice in Southfield, Michigan, Dr. McCoy uses her platform to educate clients about TTW and advocate for mental health resources. “Asking for help is a superpower,” she said. “Programs like TTW are there to guide you. You just need to say yes.”
The Ticket to Work Program represents an invaluable resource for SSDI beneficiaries seeking to regain financial independence while maintaining access to critical benefits.
Visit YouTube for the full CW50 Detroit TV segment with Dr. Michelle and AES customer Dr. Robin McCoy.
Learn more about returning to work with Allsup Employment Services and the Ticket to Work Program by calling 866-540-5105 or visit AllsupEmploymentServices.com.
ABOUT ALLSUP EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
Allsup Employment Services (AES), a subsidiary of Allsup, provides free nationwide assistance to Social Security disability beneficiaries returning to work through Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program. AES is a Social Security-authorized Employment Network (EN) whose professionals help beneficiaries protect their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits while they attempt a return to work. Learn more at AllsupEmploymentServices.com and @AllsupESWork.
