Rehab Counselors: Things to expect
Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as breathing is.
What exactly is a rehabilitation counselor?
A rehabilitation counselor supports people with disabilities in obtaining and retaining employment. Moreover, he assists individuals with physical, psychological, emotional, and other limitations in achieving their life goals.
Through a planned program of services, the rehabilitation counselor and his or her client collaborate to lessen or eliminate obstacles that may hinder independent living or employment. The rehabilitation counselor cooridnates with a number of other qualified specialists to achieve a favorable outcome. After completion of the planned program, the rehabilitation counselor terminates the case.
In addition, the rehabilitation counselor has knowledge of accommodations, modifications, and specific technologies for individuals with disabilities. She/he utilizes the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) to carry out the responsibilities of her/his profession. These experts work for federal, state, and local governments. They may also work for insurance firms. The rehabilitation counselor holds a master’s degree.
The opportunity to assist others is the most rewarding experience a person can have.
Here are the things you can expect when you talk to a rehabilitation counselor and take part in a rehabilitation program
An Initial Interview
The rehabilitation counselor organizes a meeting with the applicant after obtaining a referral. During this initial interview, the counselor reviews the applicant’s physical condition, educational background, and employment history, as well as other aspects pertinent to qualifying for rehabilitation services. The rehabilitation counselor talks with the applicant about how to get ready for any tests that may be needed and tries to gather the necessary paperwork to build a case for the applicant.
When the rehabilitation counselor receives documents regarding the applicant’s current level of functioning, he or she determines the applicant’s eligibility for rehabilitation services. If the collected information reveals the presence of a handicap and other conditions are met, a case is initiated. The counselor for rehabilitation will then carry the matter further. The applicant is known as a “client” or “customer” at this point. If the eligibility criteria are not met, the application is denied.
Development of a Rehabilitation Plan
When the case is opened, the rehabilitation counselor meets with the client to design a plan for rehabilitation services. A copy of this document is provided to the client. The plan essentially outlines what the client and rehabilitation counselor will accomplish to complete the procedure.
Rehabilitation plans can last for different amounts of time, depending on what the client needs and what they want to do with their career in the long run.
Service Delivery
Because rehabilitation programs are personalized, the services in a rehabilitation plan can vary greatly. Some individuals may need medical care. Others may just need assistance in getting employment. The plan may include training at institutions and/or specialized technology. Throughout the program, every client gets thorough counseling and guidance, but the services can be different.
Possibility of Change
Clients are individuals, and situations can fluctuate. For instance, a client may have greater medical demands than anticipated. Additional education may be required for a particular occupation. Numerous variables could necessitate alterations to the rehabilitation program. For this reason, a planned schedule of rehabilitation treatments is flexible. The rehabilitation counselor might meet with the client to discuss and “amend” these adjustments. This may not be necessary for all clients, but it should be considered during the recovery process.
Job Placement
Once a client has received assistance and accomplished any number of defined recovery plan goals, he or she is prepared to find or keep employment. The rehabilitation counselor and the client will work together to find work that matches the occupational goal of the rehabilitation plan.
Case Closure and Follow-Up
Once a client is successfully employed, the rehabilitation counselor meets with the client to close the case. Even though the case is over, the rehabilitation counselor will offer “follow-up” services to make sure the client can still live and work well.
