Orientation and Mobility (O&M) services are designed to help individuals develop the skills needed for safe, confident, and independent travel in everyday life. Through individualized support from The Carroll Center for the Blind’s Certified O&M Instructors, clients receive personalized, hands-on instruction tailored to their goals, environments, and travel needs. Training focuses on real-world application—helping individuals build confidence navigating familiar and unfamiliar settings, whether at home, in the community, at work, or while traveling in larger urban environments. Instruction may include cane skills, environmental awareness, route planning, and the use of public transportation.

Lauren F.

“I was amazed at how little I really knew. Thanks to the instruction I received, I am much more confident about traveling alone and learned quite a few things to make my life much easier and less stressful. Thank you.”

Orientation & Mobility Training

Our Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists (COMS) provide individualized instruction in the environments where travel challenges occur most often. Sessions may take place in the home, residential neighborhoods, business districts, workplaces, or on public transportation systems—depending on each person’s goals and needs.

Training may include the use of long white canes, support canes, or other adaptive strategies to improve orientation, safety, and efficiency while traveling. Each program is customized, and the length of instruction is based on individual progress and objectives.

Travel Skills for Work

For individuals entering, returning to, or currently navigating employment, Orientation & Mobility training can support safe and efficient travel in workplace environments.

Instruction may include learning routes within and around the workplace, navigating office buildings or job sites, accessing public transportation for commuting, and developing strategies for independent travel during work-related tasks or meetings. Training is tailored to each individual’s job responsibilities and can be provided before and during employment, with ongoing support available as needs evolve.

College Campus Travel Skills

For students preparing to attend college in Massachusetts or nearby states, Orientation & Mobility training can support safe and efficient navigation of campus environments.

Instruction may include learning campus layouts, building-to-building travel, and using public transportation when needed. Training can be provided before and during college enrollment, with ongoing support available based on individual needs and transitions.