Vocational rehabilitation consultants assist people with disabilities in finding and keeping jobs for government agencies, private counseling centers, and nonprofit organizations. Consultants usually focus on administrative tasks like developing new programs and policies based on client needs. A bachelor’s degree in social work or rehabilitation counseling is usually required of someone who wants to work as a vocational rehabilitation consultant. Most consultants start out as counselors and work their way up through the ranks of companies and agencies after a few years of experience.
If a person thinks he or she wants to be a vocational rehabilitation consultant, they should think about the characteristics and skills required for the job to ensure it is a good fit. Consultants spend some time working directly with clients, but the majority of their work is done in an office or on a computer. To determine the success of an agency’s initiatives, a professional conducts research into statistics about rehabilitation center policies and job placement programs. When new policy guidelines are needed, the consultant uses his or her creativity, communication, and leadership skills to write and implement them.
The minimum educational requirement for becoming a vocational rehabilitation consultant is usually a bachelor’s degree. Most employers, on the other hand, demand that professionals have a master’s degree. A major in social work, psychology, counseling, or human services can help an undergraduate prepare for a future career. A student has the opportunity to learn about current issues in human service work and rehabilitation counseling while still in school. Taking business administration and computer science courses will also help a student gain technical skills.
Those who choose to continue their education usually pursue master’s degrees in rehabilitation counseling to gain a more in-depth understanding of the challenges and issues that disabled workers face. Many graduate schools allow students to participate in internships while pursuing their degrees in order to gain hands-on experience in the field. Interns have the chance to shadow and assist experienced counselors and consultants in their work.
A person who wants to work as a vocational rehabilitation consultant can apply for entry-level positions at government agencies and private companies after earning a degree. Although some future consultants work in human resources or as administrative assistants, the majority of consultants choose to work as counselors. Clients are assisted rehabilitation counselors in identifying and overcoming problems, obtaining vocational training, and finding appropriate jobs.
A person who wants to work as a vocational rehabilitation consultant should have prior experience dealing with clients. A professional’s ability to make the best administrative decisions is aided firsthand knowledge of the challenges that clients face. After several years as a counselor and gaining respect in the field, an individual’s chances of being promoted to a consulting position are usually good.