Rehabilitation Counselors

Employers

Approximately 87,600 rehabilitation counselors are employed in the United States. Rehabilitation counselors work in a variety of settings. The majority of rehabilitation counselors work for state agencies; some also work for local and federal agencies. Employment opportunities are available in rehabilitation centers, mental health agencies, prisons, developmental disability agencies, sheltered workshops, training institutions, and schools (colleges and elementary and secondary schools).

Starting Out

School career services offices are the best places for the new graduate to begin the career search. In addition, the National Rehabilitation Counseling Association and the American Rehabilitation Counseling Association (a division of the American Counseling Association) are sources for employment information. The new counselor may also apply directly to agencies for available positions. Vocational rehabilitation agencies employ many rehabilitation counselors. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs employs rehabilitation counselors to assist with the rehabilitation of veterans who have disabilities. Many rehabilitation counselors are employed by private for-profit or nonprofit rehabilitation programs and facilities. Others are employed in industry, schools, hospitals, and other settings, while others are self-employed.