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Comprehensive Rehabilitation Counselor Job Description, Duties, Responsibilities, Requirements, and Qualifications

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Counselor Job Description, Duties, Responsibilities, Requirements, and Qualifications
September 27, 2025

Discover the essential requirements, duties, responsibilities, and skills needed for a Rehabilitation Counselor job description.

What does a Rehabilitation Counselor do?

A rehabilitation counselor is a healthcare professional who helps people with disabilities improve their lives. They work with individuals who have physical, mental, emotional, or social disabilities to help them reach their full potential. Rehabilitation counselors create personalized plans and work with other professionals to provide the best care possible. They may work at public institutions or have their own private practice.

Job Description

We are looking for a kind and dedicated rehabilitation counselor to assist our clients with managing their disabilities and improving their quality of life. In this role, you will be responsible for creating rehabilitation plans and strategies, as well as helping patients manage their conditions. You may also provide your expertise during personal injury or workers' compensation cases.

To be successful in this role, rehabilitation counselors should have a deep understanding of medical and psychological aspects of disabilities, as well as experience in rehabilitation. Exceptional candidates can identify a client's strengths and goals and create effective plans based on them. They also consult with caregivers to better manage their clients' conditions.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Evaluating clients' abilities, interests, experience, skills, health, and education.
  • Helping individuals with disabilities live more fulfilling lives.
  • Assisting individuals in adapting to disabilities acquired later in life.
  • Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure proper care.
  • Creating rehabilitation plans and strategies based on individual strengths and limitations.
  • Working with doctors, therapists, and psychologists to develop treatment plans.
  • Meeting with family members and caregivers to better manage clients' conditions.
  • Connecting clients with necessary resources such as wheelchairs or community support.
  • Identifying career training opportunities and educating employers about clients' abilities and needs.
  • Monitoring clients' progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed.

Requirements and Qualifications

  • A master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a similar field from a Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredited program.
  • A passing score on the national counselor examination.
  • State-issued license to practice as a rehabilitation counselor.
  • Extensive experience working with physical and emotional disabilities, including substance abuse, grief, and trauma.
  • Proficiency with electronic health record systems like AVATAR.
  • Understanding of underlying health conditions.
  • Knowledge of mental, emotional, and social functioning.
  • Familiarity with laws that may impact people with disabilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a caring nature.

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