Rehabilitation Counselors

To explore a career in which you work with people with disabilities, look for opportunities to volunteer or work in this field. One possibility is to be a counselor at a children's camp for youngsters who have disabilities. You can also volunteer with a local vocational rehabilitation agency or a facility such as Easterseals or Goodwill. Other possibilities include reading for the blind or leading a hobby or craft class at an adult day care center. And don't forget volunteer opportunities at a local hospital or nursing home. Even if your only responsibility is to escort people to the X-ray department or talk to patients to cheer them up, you will gain valuable experience interacting with people who are facing challenging situations.

Talk with rehabilitation counselors about the field. Ask the following questions, and try to come up with your own, too.

• What made you want to become a rehabilitation counselor?
• What are the most important personal and professional traits for rehabilitation counselors?
• What do you like and dislike about this career?
• How did you train for this field?
• Is certification important? If so, why?
• Any advice on breaking into the field?