What do vocational rehabilitation specialists do?

I'm considering a career as a vocational rehabilitation specialist but want to understand what the job involves. What are the typical responsibilities, and what skills or qualifications would I need to develop in high school or college?

A vocational rehabilitation specialist, also known as a vocational counselor, helps individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or developmental disabilities to manage the barriers they face in the employment landscape. This role offers a range of opportunities to make a difference, but it does require certain skills and qualifications.

Typical responsibilities include:

1. Conducting assessments: This often involves assessing the client's abilities, interests, experiences, skills, health, and eligibility for specific services. The goal is to establish a clear employment goal and identify potential barriers to achieving this goal.

2. Developing personalized rehabilitation or treatment plans: Based on the assessments, you would work with the individual to create a tailored plan that considers their unique circumstances and employment goals. This might include therapeutic interventions, training programs, or educational courses.

3. Providing career counseling and job placement services: Vocational rehabilitation specialists often guide clients in job search strategies, resume writing, and interview skills. They may also provide direct job placement assistance, which could involve contacting potential employers and securing reasonable accommodations in the workplace.

4. Coordinating services with other professionals: This could include collaborating with occupational therapists, social workers, employers, or educators to ensure the client receives a comprehensive range of support.

As for qualifications, a minimum of a bachelor's degree in rehabilitation services, counseling, or a closely related subject is typically required. Some states may require licensure or certification as well.

Now, for a high school student looking to develop relevant skills, consider pursuing classes that teach communication, psychology, sociology, and counseling skills. Volunteering in community service projects, perhaps particularly those focused on disability services, can also be helpful to gain hands-on experience.

In college, if you decide to pursue this path, programs that offer courses in rehabilitation counseling, psychology, disability studies, or human services would be beneficial. Additionally, an internship or part-time job at a rehabilitation center or related organization could provide valuable practical experience.

It's a career path that requires empathy, patience, good communication, and problem-solving skills. But it can also be incredibly rewarding to play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome their barriers and achieve their career goals.