Top 11 Rehabilitation Specialist Certifications

Certifications for a rehabilitation specialist are important in the job market because they demonstrate the individual’s commitment to the field and provide evidence of their knowledge, skills, and abilities. Certifications show employers that a professional is dedicated to their craft and has taken the extra steps necessary to become qualified for a position. Furthermore, certifications can open up opportunities for higher-level positions with greater responsibility and pay. They can also give an individual an edge over other applicants who do not have certification credentials. Finally, certifications provide recognition from peers in the field, which can lead to increased networking opportunities and career advancement.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Rehabilitation Specialists and explain how they can benefit a rehabilitation specialist's career.

What are Rehabilitation Specialist Certifications?

Rehabilitation specialist certification is a credential that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who work in the field of rehabilitation. This certification is offered by several organizations, including the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) and the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Rehabilitation specialists are professionals who provide counseling services to people with physical or psychological impairments or disabilities. They help these individuals adjust to their disability and regain independence in their daily lives. Rehabilitation specialists use a variety of techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and problem-solving strategies to assist their clients. They also provide support to family members and other caretakers.

Having rehabilitation specialist certification can help individuals become more competitive in the job market when seeking employment as a rehabilitation specialist. It also serves as proof that an individual has acquired the necessary knowledge and skills needed to be successful in this profession. Additionally, it demonstrates a commitment to continued education and professional development. Furthermore, it can provide access to specialized training opportunities which may be beneficial for furthering one’s career in this field.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check the requirements for certification in your state or region. Different states may have different requirements for becoming a rehabilitation specialist, such as required coursework or exams. Additionally, some certifications may have additional requirements that must be met, such as clinical experience or continuing education credits.

Related: What does a Rehabilitation Specialist do?

Top 11 Rehabilitation Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Rehabilitation Specialists today.

1. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

A Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) is a professional who assists individuals with disabilities in achieving their personal, career and independent living goals. This includes providing counseling and support services to help people with physical, mental, emotional, or developmental disabilities. CRCs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, long-term care facilities and private practice.

To become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), you must meet the following requirements:

1. Possess a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from an accredited university or college;

2. Complete at least two years of full-time experience as a rehabilitation counselor;

3. Pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE);

4. Pass the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification Examination (CRCC).

The cost of becoming certified as a CRC can vary depending on the institution offering the program and any additional fees for taking the NCE or CRCC exams. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1,000 to become certified as a CRC.

2. Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS)

A Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) is a professional who has received specialized training and certification in the field of brain injury rehabilitation. This certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assess, diagnose, treat, and manage individuals with brain injuries. The CBIS credential is awarded by the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA).

To become a CBIS, an individual must have a minimum of two years of experience working in the field of brain injury rehabilitation. In addition, they must complete an approved course of study that covers topics such as: understanding brain injury, diagnosis and assessment techniques, treatment planning and implementation strategies, case management practices, ethical considerations for working with clients with brain injuries, and advocacy for those affected by brain injuries.

The cost to become a CBIS varies depending on the type of program chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD.

Once all requirements are met and the individual has passed the examination administered by BIAA’s Certification Board (CBB), they will be awarded their CBIS credential. The credential is valid for five years before it must be renewed. Renewal requires completion of continuing education credits every two years as well as passing a renewal exam every five years.

3. Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVE)

A Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVE) is a professional who specializes in providing vocational assessments to individuals with disabilities. The purpose of the assessment is to identify an individual’s skills, abilities, and interests in order to determine their potential for successful employment. CVEs work closely with employers, job seekers, rehabilitation counselors, and other professionals to provide comprehensive vocational evaluations that can be used to develop appropriate career plans.

In order to become a Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVE), one must complete a minimum of 300 hours of supervised training in the field of vocational evaluation as well as pass an exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The training typically takes about two years to complete and can be done through a combination of academic courses, on-the-job experience, and supervised practice.

The cost of becoming a CVE varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Most programs charge tuition fees ranging from $2,000-$4,000 for the entire course. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the NBCC exam such as registration fees and study materials.

Overall, becoming a CVE is an intensive process that requires both time and money; however, it can lead to rewarding career opportunities helping individuals with disabilities reach their full potential in the workforce.

4. Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS)

A Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS) is an individual who has achieved a specialized level of certification in the field of disability management. The CDMS credential is awarded by the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC) and is recognized as the gold standard for disability management professionals.

To become certified, individuals must have a minimum of three years of experience in disability case management, complete a comprehensive exam, and agree to abide by CCMC’s Code of Professional Conduct. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that test knowledge and skills related to disability management.

The process to become certified typically takes about six months from start to finish. Individuals must first apply for certification through CCMC’s website and submit all required materials, including transcripts and proof of experience. Once approved, they are eligible to register for the exam. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their CDMS credential in the mail within four weeks.

The cost to become certified varies depending on whether or not you are a member of CCMC. For non-members, it costs $495 plus a $50 application fee; for members, it costs $395 plus the application fee.

5. Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN)

A Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) is a specialized type of registered nurse who has completed additional training and certification in rehabilitation nursing. This certification is offered through the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN).

It takes approximately three months to complete the requirements for CRRN certification. The process involves completing an application, taking an exam, and meeting all eligibility criteria.

In order to become certified, applicants must have a current RN license and at least two years of full-time experience in rehabilitation nursing within the past five years. They must also complete 30 hours of continuing education related to rehabilitation nursing within the last three years.

The cost for CRRN certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of ARN. For non-members, it is $450; for members, it is $350.

6. Certified Rehabilitation Registered Dietitian (CRRD)

Certified Rehabilitation Registered Dietitian (CRRD) is a specialized certification for dietitians who work in the field of rehabilitation. It is offered through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The CRRD credential recognizes expertise and experience in nutrition therapy for individuals with physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, or other impairments.

In order to obtain the CRRD credential, an individual must have completed a minimum of a bachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics from an accredited college or university, as well as at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice in the field of rehabilitation. In addition, applicants must pass an exam administered by CDR.

The cost to apply for the CRRD credential is $175 USD. The exam fee is $350 USD and can be taken online or at a testing center. Once all requirements are met and the exam is passed, individuals will receive their CRRD certification within 6-8 weeks.

7. Certified Work Adjustment and Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CWAVES)

Certified Work Adjustment and Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CWAVES) is a certification program for professionals who work with individuals with disabilities in the areas of vocational evaluation, job placement, and job coaching. The program is designed to provide specialized training in the areas of assessment, evaluation, job placement, and job coaching. It also provides a framework for professional development and continuing education.

The CWAVES certification program is offered through the National Institute for Disability Management and Research (NIDMAR). To become certified as a CWAVES, an individual must complete a series of courses and pass an examination. The courses cover topics such as disability management, vocational assessment, job placement strategies, job coaching techniques, and more.

The CWAVES certification process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. During this time, applicants must complete all required coursework and pass the examination. Upon successful completion of the program, applicants will receive their CWAVES certificate from NIDMAR.

The cost of obtaining the CWAVES certification varies depending on which courses are taken and how long it takes to complete them. Generally speaking however, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 USD to become certified as a CWAVES specialist.

8. Certified Clinical Rehabilitation Counselor (CCRC)

Certified Clinical Rehabilitation Counselor (CCRC) is a professional certification offered by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC). It is designed to recognize rehabilitation counselors who have achieved advanced levels of competency in their field. The CCRC credential is recognized nationally as a mark of excellence and professionalism in the field of rehabilitation counseling.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements as outlined by the CRCC. Applicants must have a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university, plus two years of full-time paid experience working as a professional counselor. In addition, applicants must pass the CRCC's National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE).

The application process for the CCRC credential can take several months to complete, depending on how quickly you are able to submit all required documentation. Once your application has been approved, you will be issued your certification number and certificate.

The cost of applying for the CCRC credential is $385 USD ($350 USD application fee + $35 USD processing fee).

9. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) is a professional who has met the standards of knowledge, skills, and experience set forth by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). CTRSs are responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic recreation programs and services for individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or social disabilities. They work with people of all ages in a variety of settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools and community agencies.

It typically takes two to three years to become a CTRS. The process includes completing an accredited therapeutic recreation program at the bachelor's or master's level; completing an internship; passing the NCTRC exam; and obtaining state licensure if necessary.

To get certified as a CTRS, you must first complete an accredited therapeutic recreation program at either the bachelor’s or master’s level. You must also complete an internship that meets the requirements set forth by the NCTRC. After completing these steps, you can apply to take the NCTRC certification exam. Once you pass this exam you will be officially certified as a CTRS and may need to obtain state licensure depending on your state's regulations.

The cost of becoming a CTRS varies depending on factors such as educational expenses and test fees. In general, it can cost anywhere from $500 - $5,000 to become certified as a CTRS.

10. National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is a national organization that provides certification and credentialing services to occupational therapists. The purpose of NBCOT is to ensure that occupational therapists meet the highest standards of practice and demonstrate competency in their field. NBCOT also sets the standards for entry-level education and continuing education requirements for occupational therapy professionals.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the process of getting certified by the NBCOT. The first step is to apply online, which requires submitting an application, providing proof of graduation from an accredited program, and paying the application fee. Once your application has been accepted, you will be sent a link to take the NBCOT exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification within 6 weeks.

The cost of applying for certification through NBCOT varies depending on whether or not you are a member of AOTA (the American Occupational Therapy Association). If you are not an AOTA member, it costs $540 for the initial application fee plus $485 for each additional specialty area you wish to be certified in. If you are an AOTA member, it costs $405 for the initial application fee plus $360 for each additional specialty area you wish to be certified in.

Once certified by NBCOT, you will need to renew your certification every two years by completing continuing education courses and paying a renewal fee of $180 if you are not an AOTA member or $135 if you are an AOTA member.

11. National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).

The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of recreational therapists. It is a voluntary credentialing program that provides recognition to individuals who have met specific standards of education, experience, and examination.

In order to become certified by NCTRC, applicants must meet certain requirements including completing an accredited therapeutic recreation degree program, passing the NCTRC exam, and having at least one year of full-time clinical experience in therapeutic recreation. The certification process typically takes around six months to complete.

To get started on the certification process, applicants must first submit an application for review by the NCTRC Board of Directors. This includes providing proof of educational qualifications as well as documentation of clinical experience. Once approved, applicants can then register for the NCTRC exam which is offered twice a year in April and October.

The cost for taking the NCTRC exam is $300 for members and $400 for non-members. Additionally, there are other fees associated with becoming certified such as a registration fee ($50) and an annual renewal fee ($50).

Do You Really Need a Rehabilitation Specialist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Rehabilitation Specialist Certificate depends on what type of job you are looking to get. If you are looking for a job in the health care industry, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, then yes, it is important to have a certificate in rehabilitation specialist. A certificate will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job effectively. The certificate can also help when applying for higher-level positions, such as director of rehabilitation services, because it shows that you have specialized knowledge and experience in this area.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a job outside of the health care field, such as an administrative assistant or customer service representative, then having a certificate may not be as important. Many of these jobs require basic computer skills and customer service experience but do not require any specialized knowledge related to rehabilitation services. Therefore, having a certificate in this field would be beneficial but not essential for getting hired at these types of jobs.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Rehabilitation Specialist Certificate depends on what type of job you are pursuing. For some professions within the health care field, it is important to have this certification in order to be competitive and qualified for certain positions. However, if your desired career does not involve direct contact with patients or rehabilitation services then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary.

Related: Rehabilitation Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Rehabilitation Specialist Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Rehabilitation Specialist?

Answer: In order to become a Rehabilitation Specialist, you must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in rehabilitative sciences, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, or social work. You may also need to complete additional certifications or obtain licensure in your area.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a Rehabilitation Specialist?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified as a Rehabilitation Specialist varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and the requirements of your state or region. Generally, most certifications can be completed within one year or less.

3. What is the cost of becoming certified as a Rehabilitation Specialist?

Answer: The cost of obtaining certification as a Rehabilitation Specialist typically includes the registration fee for the exam, any study materials needed for preparation, and any other associated costs such as travel and lodging expenses. Depending on the type of certification you are seeking, these costs can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

4. Are there continuing education requirements for Rehabilitation Specialists?

Answer: Yes, many certifications require that Rehabilitation Specialists complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification status. The specific requirements vary by certification and may include attending conferences and workshops, completing online courses, or participating in other educational activities related to rehabilitation science.

5. Can I specialize in certain areas as a Rehabilitation Specialist?

Answer: Yes! There are many specializations available for Rehabilitation Specialists including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology and audiology, psychological services for individuals with disabilities, assistive technology training and support services for individuals with disabilities, vocational evaluation services for individuals with disabilities, and more!