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Rehabilitation counselors provide counseling, guidance
and case management services to persons with disabilities to assist
them in achieving their psychological, personal, social, and vocational
goals. Rehabilitation counselors determine the impact
of disability on goal attainment; evaluate vocational interests, aptitudes,
and skills of clients; and provide appropriate services to maximize
career options and quality of life. After conferring with the client's
physicians, psychologists, occupational therapists, and the employer,
a rehabilitation program is initiated. The rehabilitation program
may include mental health or adjustment counseling services; independent
living assistance; locating and coordinating services in physical
and mental restoration, academic or vocational training, and government
services; job analysis or modification; and other services targeted
to the individual needs of the individual with a disability. The rehabilitation
program may range from a week to several years depending on the nature
of the problem and the needs of the client.
Rehabilitation
Counselor
Areas of Specialization
Physical Rehabilitation, Mental Health Counseling, Substance Abuse
Counseling, Insurance Case Management, Disability Management, Corrections,
Vocational Evaluation, Forensic Rehabilitation, Pediatric Rehabilitation,
Geriatric Rehabilitation.
Work Environment
Rehabilitation counselors are employed at state and federal vocational
rehabilitation agencies, rehabilitation centers, mental health programs,
employee assistance programs, insurance companies, correctional
facilities, private industry, and private practice. The number of
counselors switching to private sector practice is increasing.
Job Outlook
The number of Rehabilitation Counselors employed in Florida in 2006
was 5,347. It is projected that in 2014 there will be 6,145. Although
this annual average growth rate of 1.9 percent is slightly lower
than Florida’s average for all occupations, the number of
people who need rehabilitation services will continue to rise as
advances in medical technology continue to save lives and extend
lives. Individuals are living longer and new developments in assistive
technology increase the possibilities of more innovative rehabilitation
strategies.
Length of Training/Requirements
A master's degree in rehabilitation counseling is required for certification
as a rehabilitation counselor. The graduate curriculum covers all
aspects of the rehabilitation process, including a counseling practicum
and internship. Graduates with a 60-hour master's degree including
specified coursework are also prepared to initiate the process of
becoming licensed mental health counselors in Florida.
Advancement
With further experience, rehabilitation counselors can become supervisors
or administrators of their agencies. Some enter consultation, research,
or college teaching.
Licensure/Certification
Voluntary certification is offered through the Commission on Rehabilitation
Counselor Certification (CRCC). Candidates must pass the certification
examination and possess at least a master's degree. Interested candidates
should contact the CRCC for further information. Many rehabilitation
counselors choose to become licensed mental health counselors in
the state of Florida.
Salary
The average hourly wage for rehabilitation counselors employed in
Florida was $14.32 in 2006.
Updated: 2007 |
