What Is Vocational Rehabilitation?
It’s not easy to find a decent job in the current economy, especially so if you are a person with disabilities. This is where the expertise of a vocational rehabilitation counselor becomes invaluable. The National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health defines a vocational rehabilitation counselor as “a person who has special training to help people with a disability find a job or career.” These professionals are equipped to evaluate an individual’s education, training, skills, interests, and financial needs, enabling them to make informed employment decisions.
In addition to helping people identify suitable career paths, vocational rehabilitation counselors play an important role in supporting their ongoing professional development. They monitor job performance and provide essential counseling, education, and resources for various job-related challenges. Furthermore, they assist individuals in accessing necessary accommodations in the workplace, fostering an inclusive environment that promotes success. Given the complexities often faced by those with disabilities in the workforce, it’s essential to consider whether engaging a vocational rehabilitation counselor could enhance your career prospects.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services is determined based on three critical criteria.
- First, the applicant must have a physical or mental impairment, as evaluated by qualified personnel.
- Second, this impairment must substantially hinder the applicant’s ability to find or keep employment.
- Third, a vocational rehabilitation counselor must determine that the applicant requires these services to help them prepare for, secure, retain, advance, or regain employment.
The process is centered around the individual’s strengths, resources, priorities, and personal goals, assuming they aim for a positive employment outcome.
How to Start?
In the U.S., the Social Security Administration provides benefits to people with disabilities, while the Rehabilitation Services Administration oversees grants for eligible individuals seeking vocational rehabilitation services. For some individuals, in cases where job retention may not be immediately feasible, vocational rehabilitation services focus on enhancing vocational skills to prepare them for future employment. Many programs also offer educational services alongside rehabilitation, which has been shown to improve long-term occupational outcomes.
People with disabilities can be referred to vocational rehabilitation services through various avenues, such as referrals from a doctor, or they can self-refer by contacting their local state’s vocational rehabilitation office. The process can begin at any point in a person’s journey with their disability, and they are welcome to return for further assistance if needed.
Once an individual begins the process, vocational rehabilitation has 60 days to determine eligibility and provide a decision on the case. The time an individual works with vocational rehabilitation varies based on their goals and needs. Even after securing employment, vocational rehabilitation will continue to support the individual and their employer for an additional 90 days to ensure proper accommodations and that the job is a good fit.
During the initial meeting with a vocational rehabilitation counselor, individuals will be asked to provide various documents related to their disability, income, and identification. Bringing all relevant medical records and any requested documents to this first appointment can help streamline the process.
You can find more information to help you begin your journey with vocational rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Services Administration’s website.
How to Become a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor?
Vocational rehabilitation can be a rewarding employment option for people with disabilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for rehabilitation counselors will increase by 11 percent between 2021 and 2031. This growth is driven by the growing need for rehabilitation services among veterans, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. In 2021, around 93,200 rehabilitation counselors were employed, and this number is projected to rise to 103,000 by 2031.
In May 2021, the median annual wage for rehabilitation counselors was 38,560 USD, with most earning between 28,890 USD and 65,880 USD. For those considering a career as a counselor, this field offers both stability and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Licensure requirements for vocational rehabilitation counselors vary by state. In some cases, offering only vocational rehabilitation services may not require licensure. However, where licensure is needed, it generally involves completing a master’s degree, gaining supervised clinical experience, passing a state exam, and fulfilling continuing education requirements. Additionally, experienced counselors can pursue the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor certification, further enhancing their career opportunities.
Criticism
Some criticize the American vocational rehabilitation system for less-than-optimal effectiveness and limited inclusivity, pointing out subpar employment success rates among participants, particularly those with severe disabilities like traumatic brain injuries. For example, only 17 percent of these individuals in Missouri were employed at case closure, and nationwide, just 20.5 percent of people with disabilities are part of the labor force. Even then, these people earn 37 percent less than non-disabled workers. Looking at these figures, it is hard to miss the severe challenges people with disabilities face in achieving high-quality employment.
A lack of individual approach to the specific barriers individuals encounter may be partially to blame for the system’s ineffectiveness and poor outcomes. As is the case with so many other parts of our security net, the system works best in high-income communities and fails to achieve comparable results for people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Is It Worth It?
Vocational rehabilitation offers numerous benefits and services for individuals with disabilities or injuries, including support for returning to work, reaching their full potential in the workforce, and improving their overall quality of life. It also plays a crucial role in helping individuals achieve independent living. If you or someone you know is dealing with a disability and interested in re-entering the workforce or living independently, it is essential to explore the vocational rehabilitation services available.
