How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselor

Rehabilitation counselors help to care for patients during some of the most difficult and challenging times in their lives. They have the ability to make a profound impact on their patients by helping them to overcome addictions, injuries and illnesses. Being a rehabilitation counselor is a challenging and rewarding career.

1. Complete your education. Once you graduate high school, you should plan to attend an accredited college or university. At minimum, rehabilitation counselors are required to obtain a bachelor's degree in psychology with a focus on rehabilitation counseling. Some employers require counselors to have a master's degree in these fields. 


2. Decide where you wish to work. There are many job placement opportunities for rehabilitation counselors. You can choose to work for a private clinic or for a state-run program. It is often a challenge to land a job with a public-sector clinic, so most counselors work for independent clinics. Private clinics often provide better compensation to rehabilitation counselors.


3. Obtain your certification. Before you can work as a rehabilitation counselor, you need to be certified through the National Board of Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC). Obtaining your certification will demonstrate to possible employers that you have all of the education and skills necessary to be an effective rehabilitation counselor.


4. Take advantage of your university's placement program. Many colleges offer placement assistance to help students obtain internships and permanent positions within their chosen field. Work with your advisor to research potential job openings. Review and update your resume accordingly. Ensure that all of your education and skills are listed so that future employers are aware of all of the time and preparation that you spent to obtain your new job.