To work as a vocational expert, you’ll need to complete an educational program in mental health or human services, as well as extensive work experience in vocational or rehabilitation counseling. You’ll also need to obtain additional credentials such as professional licensure and certification. You will typically be required to complete continuing education courses on a regular basis to maintain your qualifications as a vocational expert.
In the United States, the term “vocational expert” refers to someone who can accurately assess an individual’s earning potential or the possibility of vocational rehabilitation for a person who is involved in a lawsuit or has applied for disability benefits. Although a vocational expert may have other professional credentials and titles, he or she essentially acts as an expert witness in cases where a person’s ability to work and earn a living is in question. A vocational expert may focus on specific types of litigation or disability cases, such as family court disputes or Social Security disability cases. In fact, you may be able to earn a certification credential in one or more of these areas through certifying bodies.
To work as a vocational expert, you will typically need a graduate degree. A degree in psychology, rehabilitation, or another relevant field may be required. You’ll also need to accumulate a significant amount of work experience. You could begin offering counseling or support services at a school or a social services agency. As you work to become a vocational expert, it is critical that you develop your understanding of and expertise in using various types of psychological and vocational tests and assessments. When making recommendations to judges and lawyers, you’ll need this knowledge.
To work as a vocational expert, you may need to have a license in a mental health or social services field in addition to your education and work experience. Each state sets its own licensing requirements for these fields, and you must meet these requirements to be eligible for licensure. It’s also possible that you’ll need to be certified as a vocational expert a reputable professional organization. Such organizations may offer various levels of certification, and you may find that as you earn higher certifications, your professional opportunities expand. Typically, the application process entails submitting information about your education and work experience, as well as passing a certification exam.