Vocational rehabilitation counselors play an important role in many people’s lives. They help people regain control of their lives and return to being productive members of society. A vocational rehab counselor customizes services to meet the unique needs of each client.
Counselors evaluate each client’s current capabilities, strengths, limitations, career interests and goals. This helps them determine what kind of vocational training or skills acquisition each individual needs to succeed in securing employment.
Counselors may do any of the following:*
- Help clients find good support systems
- Create individual plans for employment
- Prepare clients for the workforce by helping them develop new skills
- Help clients with job applications
Vocational rehab counselors often consult with potential employers about how they might enable a person with a disability to be successful in a particular role.
These professionals also point clients in the direction of community resources. For example, they might help a client in need find a wheelchair or a walker. The counselor for a client who has trouble speaking might research available devices to find the one that best suits the client’s unique needs.
In addition, counselors often help individuals with disabilities learn to cope with the significant life changes they have experienced. This may lead to sessions aimed at building strong coping skills.