Vocational Counselor

What is a vocational counselor?

Vocational rehabilitation counselors assist people with disabilities in planning careers, and finding and keeping satisfying jobs. They evaluate the patient for the following:

• Education and job training history prior to the disability

• Skills and training potential since the disability

• Personal interest and motivation

• Financial needs

• Progress after job placement

Vocational counselors educate disabled patients about their rights and protection based on the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. They also serve as mediators for disabled employees and their employers regarding proper accommodations in the workplace. Vocational counselors are responsible for continued counseling, reevaluation, and reeducation of the patient with regard to vocational issues.

Vocational counselors may practice in a variety of settings, including the following:

• Inpatient rehabilitation centers

• Outpatient rehabilitation centers

• Psychiatric care settings

• Industrial health settings

• Private practice

Vocational counselors are Master's prepared and certified by the Board for Rehabilitation Certification. Many are also prepared as psychologists.