To work as a rehabilitation counselor, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree;
• have a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling; and
• pass an exam.

Education after high school

The most common way to become a rehabilitation counselor is to complete a master's degree. Thus you must complete a four-year bachelor's degree program and a two-year master's degree program. Your undergraduate degree usually is in a field such as psychology, nursing, or social work.

In graduate programs, you study psychology, physiology, and public policy. You also learn various types of therapy techniques and skills, including individual and group work as well as vocational therapy ideas. You also spend time working with clients, while supervised by a licensed rehabilitation counselor.

Work experience

Volunteer experience in hospitals or nursing homes is helpful when applying to college. Some employers prefer counselors with one to two years of work experience in a particular area.

On-the-job training

Many employers offer short-term, on-the-job training to orient you to procedures and policies. This training usually lasts a few months or less.

Military training

The military is a good source of training for this occupation. Military training includes classroom instruction and work experience applying rehabilitation therapy techniques.