04/02/2001 44825

VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION COUNSELOR INTERN

DEFINITION: This is a structured training program performing entry-level specialized professional work in the field of vocational rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.

An employee in this job is enrolled in the final semester of a master's degree program in rehabilitation counseling, rehabilitation education, or rehabilitation administration. Work involves participating in a highly structured internship involving formal and on-the-job training designed to provide practical work experience in vocational rehabilitation. The internship enables employees to acquire working skills; knowledge of Federal law and regulations, and state policy and procedures; and experience in counseling and case management. Supervision is provided by a Vocational Rehab Supervisor who directs training, gives preliminary instructions, provides close guidance, and closely monitors and evaluates the provision of case services in progress. Upon successful completion of the internship and the master's degree program, interns will be eligible for promotion to a Vocational Rehab Counselor 1 or Vocational Rehab Counselor 1, DHH.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Performs a comprehensive assessment to examine eligibility factors, rehabilitation needs, and unique strengths and capabilities of the individual.

Develops jointly with the customer an individualized plan for employment.

Arranges for services.

Provides vocational rehabilitation counseling services.

Prepares case records and reports.

Provides job placement services and contacts employers.

Maintains and develops liaisons with referral sources and service providers.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED, KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of individual and group behavior.

Knowledge of effective ways of working with people.

Knowledge of the principles and methods of vocational and social rehabilitation.

Knowledge of physical, mental and sensory disabilities, their functional limitations, and their related vocational implications.

Knowledge of employment practices and the skills, abilities and physical demands of the more common occupations.

Knowledge of the techniques of placing people with disabilities in competitive employment.

Knowledge of the social and vocational impacts of disabilities on people.

Knowledge of counseling principles for persons with disabilities.

Knowledge of the methods for analyzing and evaluating vocational, educational, and medical information.

Ability to apply federal and state laws, regulations and policies concerning the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services.

Ability to apply casework principles and methods relating to rehabilitation counseling.

Ability to apply the empowerment concept of vocational rehabilitation.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to effectively communicate orally.

Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

Ability to keep accurate and effective records.

Ability to prepare reports.

Ability to analyze information, draw conclusions and make sound casework decisions with customers.

Ability to participate in public relations and networking activities.

Ability to plan, organize, and carry out caseload management activities efficiently and effectively.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Current enrollment in the final year of a master's degree program in vocational rehabilitation counseling, rehabilitation education, or rehabilitation administration.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Authorization by the college or university for the student to participate in the Commonwealth's Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Intern Program. Upon entering the internship, the student must be enrolled in the final semester of the appropriate master's degree program.