So how does someone become a certified rehabilitation counselor? This job can be gained by taking a number of steps. If you have experience working as a nurse’s aide or similar position, that is a great place to start. Many hospitals and health care facilities prefer to hire individuals who have already spent some time working in their facilities. They want to know that their employees are able to handle day to day responsibilities without fear of being overwhelmed.
If that is not an option, you can train for the CCR designation online. There are a number of programs out there designed to help students acquire the knowledge and skills they need to perform the job. The majority of these programs are short courses that take about six weeks to complete. Once you complete your certified rehabilitation counselors training program, you will need to take a state board exam.
Many people are concerned that if they want to work in the field as a certified rehabilitation counselor, it means they will have to switch institutions. This is not necessarily true. Most states require that counselors who wish to be certified to take continuing education credits each year. In addition, most states require that counselors who want to be certified to take at least 250 hours of continuing education in order to be certified.
Those who choose to work in this field should have an understanding of multiple types of patient and situation types. For example, they will be working with individuals who are suffering from abuse, addiction, depression, diabetes, sexual trauma, and more. Counselors will also be working in private practices, government agencies, and hospitals. The type of facility you work in will depend on the services you want to offer. Most facilities hire counselors who are employed by themselves.
Those who want to work as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in rehabilitation may want to take a course in LPN practice. These programs prepare students to work alongside doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Those who are employed in healthcare settings should work towards their LPN certification. Those who are interested in rehabilitation as a career can pursue a certificate program after completing their LPN training.
Students who are considering a career as a certified rehabilitation counselor must also be prepared to become proactive in their careers. After training, they must be willing and able to work in an atmosphere that is accepting and compassionate. Many counselors work in school clinics and rehabilitation centers. Others work in prisons and mental health facilities. It is important to know that being certified does not guarantee that you will have a job of your choosing.
Choosing a career as a certified rehabilitation counselor is a good choice. The job outlook for this field is positive. Many employers require certification if you want to work as a counselor in any of the aforementioned settings. You may even find yourself with more responsibility once you become certified. Counselors will always need to be willing to adapt to the many environments they work in.
Those who become a licensed rehabilitation counselor can go on to have jobs in various educational institutions. These positions usually require extra education, but not medical training. Counselors are sometimes involved in overseeing day-to-day operations at schools. Rehabilitation counselors will generally have regular hours of work, but may be required to take some time off for personal issues or vacations.
A career as a certified rehabilitation counselor can be very rewarding. Many jobs involve helping addicts to get back into society and to hold down a regular job. Counselors are needed in nursing homes and mental health facilities as well. Those looking for additional responsibilities should consider becoming certified.
A certified rehabilitation counselor can have many benefits. Those who have these skills are in high demand and can have a variety of career options. Those considering a career in this field should make sure they are ready for it by getting certified.
