A rehab counselor assists people who are dealing with a variety of personal issues in regaining control of their lives and becoming self-sufficient, contributing members of society. Traditionally, he conducts interviews to assess a client’s needs and recommends treatment options. In general, his job requires him to be an empathic source of practical solutions to problems and situations that are typically complex. Counselors are frequently employed in rehab clinics, hospitals, and schools.
Clients of a rehabilitation counselor typically have a wide range of issues. Some clients may be dealing with multiple issues at once. Physical, mental, and emotional disabilities are common problems that necessitate the assistance of a rehab counselor. Unemployment, domestic strife, and the stress of everyday life frequently exacerbate these issues.
Choosing the best solutions for a client’s problems usually necessitates a number of evaluation processes, which are usually started by the rehab counselor. His first step is usually a casual conversation with the client. This interaction usually gives him the answer to the problem’s core issue. This stage of evaluation can be difficult because the root of the problem is rarely obvious.
The counselor will typically review the client’s job, medical, and educational histories once the problem has been isolated as much as possible. He may contact other professionals who may have insight into the client’s problems and offer possible solutions once he determines the most likely source of discord. These professionals may have worked with the client before or have experience with similar clients.
Following a thorough examination of the client’s situation, the rehab counselor will usually make recommendations for recovery. Job placement assistance, physical or psychological medical treatment, occupational therapy, or a combination of these are frequently used. Before making firm recommendations, the counselor usually consults with the client and his family to get their input.
A rehab counselor is generally required to keep detailed records on his clients in addition to dealing with clients and industry professionals. He is also expected to prepare reports and summaries for management on a regular basis that may have an impact on staffing and funding. For his clients to be accepted into certain rehabilitation programs or facilities, letters of referral are frequently required.
Private clinics and hospitals, as well as publicly-funded facilities, agencies, and schools, can hire rehab counselors. He frequently has connections with community professionals who can help clients enroll in appropriate programs and therapy groups. His job may require him to plan and implement rehabilitative programs for clients and residents at live-in or long-term care facilities.
A bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, rehabilitation, or a related field is usually required to be considered for this position. A master’s degree in one or more of these fields may be required by some employers. Special certificates may be required to practice as a rehab counselor in some areas.