Rehabilitation counsellor
What does a rehabilitation counsellor do?
A rehabilitation counsellor works with people whose injury, disability, health condition or circumstances have made it hard to work, study or live independently. They assess each person's abilities, interests and goals, then build a practical plan to get there. That can include vocational counselling, help with job seeking and retraining, arranging changes at work, coordinating medical and allied health services, and supporting people through the emotional side of a major change.
Rehabilitation counsellors work for workplace rehabilitation providers, insurers and workers' compensation schemes, disability employment services, hospitals and community health services, and government agencies. Some work inside large employers, running return-to-work programs. The role mixes office work and client meetings with visits to workplaces and homes.
Is a career in rehabilitation counselling right for me?
A career in rehabilitation counselling may suit you if you enjoy helping people overcome challenges and achieve positive outcomes. You need empathy and patience, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work with a range of people to coordinate support and work towards shared goals.
Other skills and attributes that suit this career include:
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
How to become a rehabilitation counsellor
A common pathway to becoming a rehabilitation counsellor is to complete a rehabilitation counselling qualification that meets the membership requirements of relevant professional bodies. Whilst UniSQ does not currently offer a rehabilitation counselling degree, studies in counselling and psychology can help you develop foundational skills in communication, assessment and client support. Some graduates gain experience in areas such as case management, disability support or employment services before undertaking a specialist rehabilitation counselling qualification.
Devlop the foundations for a career in rehabilitation counselling with UniSQ. Here is one path to get you started:
- Complete a bachelor degree in counselling, psychology or a related health field.
- Build experience with people facing injury, disability or disadvantage through placements, volunteering or support roles.
- Complete an accredited rehabilitation counselling qualification, often at postgraduate level.
- Apply for membership of the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC).
- Gain experience in workplace rehabilitation, disability employment or injury management, and keep up your professional development.
Accreditation and qualifications
The typical pathway to becoming a rehabilitation counsellor is to complete a rehabilitation counselling qualification that meets the requirements for professional membership with the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC). Full ASORC membership requires an ASORC-accredited rehabilitation counselling degree.
Counselling is generally self-regulated in Australia, so there is no Ahpra registration for counsellors. Professional recognition is through Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) membership. UniSQ's Master of Counselling (Qualifying) is accredited by the PACFA and ACA, which enables registration as a counsellor with the Australian Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (ARCAP).
How long does it take to become a rehabilitation counsellor?
The time it takes to become a rehabilitation counsellor depends on the study pathway you choose. A bachelor's degree in counselling, psychology or a related field typically takes three years of full-time study, while postgraduate counselling qualifications generally take one to two years full time.
To gain professional recognition as a rehabilitation counsellor, you will usually need to complete a specialist rehabilitation counselling qualification, which may add a further one to two years of postgraduate study. Many people also build relevant experience in areas such as case management, disability services, workplace rehabilitation or community support while completing their studies.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Build the foundational counselling and communication skills that can support a future career in rehabilitation counselling.Responsibilities and work settings
Assessing clients' abilities, interests and barriers to work or study.
Developing and reviewing rehabilitation and return-to-work plans.
Negotiating suitable duties and workplace changes with employers.
Coordinating doctors, allied health professionals and insurers involved in a case.
Providing counselling and vocational guidance through each stage of recovery.
Community health organisations
Disability services providers
Government agencies, departments and councils
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Public hospitals and health services
Rehabilitation counsellor FAQs
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