Some, however, may accept applicants with a bachelor's degree in rehabilitation services, counseling, psychology, or related fields. Experience in employment counseling, job development, psychology, education, or social work may be helpful. About 30 colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree in rehabilitation services education. In 1987, the Council on Rehabilitation Education accredited 74 graduate programs in rehabilitation counseling. In most state vocational rehabilitation agencies, applicants must pass a written examination and be evaluated by a board of examiners.
Many employers require rehabilitation counselors to be certified.
To become certified, counselors must meet educational and experience standards established by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, and pass a written examination. Mental health counselors generally have a master's degree or doctorate in mental health counseling, another area of counseling, or in psychology or social work. They are certified by the National Academy of Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselors. A master's degree, a period of supervised internship, and an examination are required for certification. Although this certification is voluntary, many states require a license for private practice.