Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors

A vocational rehabilitation counselor is a licensed professional. The counselor advices and interviews individuals to get well from mental disorders, physical injury and substance abuse problems, so that they may find a job or effectively return to their earlier jobs.

The daily task of the counselor is to meet the clients in order to keep an eye on their progress in getting well. They need to discuss their problems and help them expand and enhance their job skills. There are many professionals who have the information of governmental funding and job placement resources to help their clients.

You will notice that the individuals who are recovering from addiction, accidents or chronic mental problems often find difficult when getting back to work or searching for new jobs. In such cases, vocational rehabilitation counselors offer support and crucial information to such individuals.

A counselor discusses with the client about his or her vocational skills, goal and limitations. Accordingly the counselor suggests the option to the client and encourages him or her to seek a job. They also assist the client to find career placement resources, to write a resume and set up interviews. You should know the following things before you go for a career in vocational rehabilitation:

Duties and responsibilities:

• Discuss with the clients to obtain information regarding their abilities and interests
• Analyze clients work history.
• Arrange for training programs.
• Help clients in job searches and placements.
• Maintain the record which includes follow up interviews of the clients.
• Gather occupational and educational information.
• Maintain relationships with employers and the families of the clients.
• Accomplish job analysis and suggest job changes.

Working Conditions:

The counselor often works under the supervision and personally with clients. They need to work cooperatively with employers and with many professional such as therapists, physicians, teachers, social workers because the rehabilitation mostly requires a team effort.

The counselors work in colleges, universities or in offices. They work for about 40 hours per week with some overtime required in order to attend meetings. Those working in colleges and universities may have different work schedules.

Educational qualifications:

• Should obtain a Master's Degree in counseling or at least Bachelor's Degree
• After the completion of Master's degree, fresh counselor can start working under the guidance of an experienced counselor for a duration of two years
• After two years of supervision, he or she can take a written licensing exam administered by his or her state or country
• Additional certificate is not compulsory, however some counselors take nationally recognized certifying exams to strengthen their credentials and improve their chances of seeking jobs

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Salary

Earnings of vocational rehabilitation counselors vary according to the private and public agencies. It is also based upon the individual's level of education and experience. Those having Masters Degree benefit higher salaries.

Vocational rehab counselors had median annual earnings of $36, 140 in 1998. They also receive a paid vacations and holidays, medical insurance, retirement plans and sick leave pay.

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Employment

In 1996, about 29, 600 vocational rehab counselors were employed. Employment in private agencies was expected to expand as private companies were used more to help in the rehabilitation of accident sufferers.