What are the career prospects for a career in rehabilitation counseling?

Answer 1

You usually need a master degree in Rehabiliation Counseling or related field and a CRC. The CRC (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor) is obtained by applying to take a 6-hour certification exam after completing at least 70% of coursework toward your master degree. Some people do work as Vocational Counselors without a master degree though, but because they have neither the qualifications or credentials, they make less than those who have them. Without the credentials, it may be difficult to move up to a managerial position in the Vocational Rehabilitation field.

Answer 2

A vocational rehabilitation counselor provides rehabilitation and counseling services to clients who have experienced debilitating physical injuries, mental health issues and substance abuse problems in order to help them recuperate. These professionals enable clients to recover and gain independence, as well as the ability to join, or re-join, the workforce.

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Responsibilities

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors spend much of their time interviewing clients in order to assess their specific disabilities, and their skills related to the workforce. The counselor will then develop a strategy for rehabilitation and advise the client on what they will need to do in order to begin the recovery process.

A vocational rehabilitation counselor provides support, encouragment, and valuable advice and information to the client during the entire process, and they constantly re-assess the situation to determine if a different course of action is needed to help the client gain employment and independence.

In addition to counseling and assisting the client during the rehabilitation process, a vocational rehabilitation counselor will also help throughout the entire course of searching and applying for jobs. First, the counselor will actively advise the client and illuminate all of their possible career avenues, so they will have a clear understanding of all the options available to them. An involved vocational rehabilitation counselor might also aid the client in resume writing, utilizing career placement resources, submitting Job Applications and scheduling and preparing for interviews.

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Education and Licensure Requirements

A professional is required to obtain at least a master’s degree in counseling before they can provide vocational rehabilitation counseling services. After they graduate with their acquired degree, a counselor must work under the direct supervision of a licensed vocational rehabilitation counselor for two years. At this point, the counselor will typically receive an evaluation, as well as guidance on how they can improve their service skills. Upon completion of this guidance period, the professional will qualify to take their state’s vocational rehabilitation counseling licensure exam. Even though it is not required, a licensed vocational rehabilitation counselor can also choose to take the nationally recognized certification exam to improve their image and reputation in this career field.

A career as a vocational rehabilitation counselor can be highly challenging and rewarding. There is quite a need for these counselors in the workforce, as there will always be people that need rehabilitation and employment assistance.

Answer 3

Many individuals who like working with people and helping people, choose a career in rehabilitation therapy. Mental health and rehabilitation patient needs are also increasing.