Top 11 Vocational Counselor Certifications

Certifications are important for vocational counselors in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the counselor has the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality services to clients. Certifications also provide recognition within the profession, which can help a counselor advance their career. Additionally, certifications may be required by certain employers or state licensing boards in order to practice as a vocational counselor. Finally, certifications can often lead to increased salaries or other benefits associated with being professionally certified.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Vocational Counselors and explains how they can help to advance a vocational counselor's career.

What are Vocational Counselor Certifications?

Vocational counselor certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills to provide quality career counseling services. Career counselors use a variety of techniques to assist clients in making informed decisions about their future career paths. This includes helping individuals identify their interests, skills, and values; exploring different options; and developing strategies for achieving goals.

With vocational counselor certification, professionals are able to demonstrate that they possess the qualifications necessary to provide effective career counseling services. Certification may be obtained through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), which provides credentialing for counselors in a number of areas, including vocational counseling. With this certification, professionals can show potential employers that they have the necessary training and experience to help their clients make informed decisions about their futures.

Vocational counselor certification can also help counselors stay current on best practices in career counseling. By participating in continuing education opportunities offered by organizations such as NBCC or state licensure boards, counselors can ensure they are up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the field. Additionally, having a certified credential can help counselors stand out when applying for jobs or competing for promotions within their organizations.

Overall, vocational counselor certification is an important part of establishing oneself as a qualified professional in the field of career counseling. It demonstrates one’s commitment to providing quality services while also giving them an edge when it comes to job opportunities.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have the right qualifications and experience to become a vocational counselor. Research the different certifications available, as well as any continuing education or other requirements for certification. Additionally, consider if you need additional training or experience to specialize in certain areas of counseling.

Related: What does a Vocational Counselor do?

Top 11 Vocational Counselor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Vocational Counselors today.

1. Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (CVR)

Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (CVR) is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of those who provide vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities. This certification is designed to ensure that counselors have the necessary education, training, and experience to effectively counsel individuals with disabilities in their pursuit of employment.

In order to become a Certified Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, an individual must meet certain educational and experience requirements. These include:

• A master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university
• At least two years of full-time professional experience providing vocational rehabilitation services
• Completion of an approved CVR-specific continuing education program
• Passing the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) exam for Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC).

The process of becoming certified as a CVR typically takes between one and two years. The cost of the certification process varies depending on the type of program chosen and other factors such as travel expenses. Generally, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

2. Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP)

A Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) is a professional certification program for career coaches, counselors, and consultants. It is designed to help individuals become more effective in their career development and job search activities.

The CCSP certification process takes approximately 6-8 weeks to complete. To get certified, applicants must submit an application with proof of credentials, such as a resume or CV, and pass an online assessment with a score of at least 80%. The assessment includes questions about career counseling techniques, job search strategies, and other related topics.

The cost of the CCSP certification varies depending on the provider. Generally, it ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This includes the application fee, assessment fee, and any additional fees that may be required by the provider.

In addition to passing the assessment and paying the associated fees, applicants must also complete a minimum of 10 hours of continuing education every two years in order to maintain their certification status.

3. Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVES)

A Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVES) is a professional who has been trained and certified to evaluate the skills, abilities, interests, and aptitudes of individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment. This evaluation helps to identify an individual’s strengths and weaknesses in order to develop an effective career plan. A CVES may also provide job placement services, training programs, and other services related to helping individuals find suitable employment.

It typically takes between one and two years of study to become a Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVES). Most programs include coursework in areas such as psychology, counseling, human resources management, vocational assessment techniques, job analysis and placement strategies. In addition to completing coursework, candidates must also pass a certification exam administered by the National Board for Certified Vocational Evaluators (NBCVE).

In order to become a Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVES), you must meet certain requirements. These include having a bachelor’s degree in psychology or related field; at least two years of experience working with individuals with disabilities; completion of at least 40 hours of specialized training in vocational evaluation; passing the NBCVE certification exam; and meeting any additional requirements set by your state or local licensing board.

The cost of becoming a Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVES) varies depending on the program you choose and the state in which you live. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$10,000 depending on the program length and type of courses taken.

4. National Certified Career Counselor (NCCC)

National Certified Career Counselor (NCCC) is a certification program offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The NCCC credential is designed to recognize professional counselors who have demonstrated expertise in career counseling, career development, and career planning.

To become an NCCC, one must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by NBCC. These include having a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, at least two years of full-time experience as a professional counselor, and completion of at least 30 hours of specialized training in career counseling.

Once these requirements are met, applicants can submit their application to NBCC. The application includes submitting transcripts, proof of experience and training, letters of recommendation from supervisors or colleagues, and a $300 fee. Once the application is approved, applicants will be invited to take the NCCC Examination. This exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as assessment techniques and interventions for career counseling; job search strategies; job market trends; ethical considerations; and diversity issues in career counseling.

The cost of taking the NCCC Examination is $250 plus an additional $50 processing fee. After passing the exam with a score of 75% or higher, applicants will receive their official certification from NBCC and be recognized as National Certified Career Counselors (NCCCs).

5. Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF)

Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop their career development skills. The GCDF credential is offered by the Center for Credentialing and Education (CCE), an affiliate of the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

The GCDF program is designed to prepare individuals to work as career development facilitators, providing guidance and support to clients in developing their career goals and plans. The program consists of a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as self-assessment, job search strategies, resume writing, interviewing techniques, and career planning.

The program requires a minimum of 60 hours of instruction including both online and in-person components. The online component includes 10 modules which must be completed within 6 months of enrollment. The in-person component consists of two days of intensive training with an approved instructor.

To become certified as a Global Career Development Facilitator, applicants must successfully complete the required coursework and pass the certification exam administered by CCE. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least three years’ experience working in a related field or having earned a master’s degree in counseling or human services.

The cost to become certified as a Global Career Development Facilitator varies depending on the type of training chosen and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $1,200 - $2,000 USD depending on the provider chosen.

6. Master Career Counselor (MCC)

Master Career Counselor (MCC) is a certification awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). It is an advanced credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved the highest level of professional development and expertise in the field of career counseling. The MCC credential demonstrates that a person has mastered the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide effective career counseling services.

To become an MCC, applicants must first complete a master's degree in counseling or related field from an accredited college or university. They must also have at least three years of post-graduate work experience in career counseling and meet other requirements set forth by the NBCC. Once these requirements are met, applicants can begin the application process which includes submitting official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and passing a written exam.

The cost of becoming an MCC varies depending on where you live, but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 for all fees associated with the certification process. This includes registration fees for both the exam and application process as well as any additional materials needed to complete your application.

The entire process typically takes between 4-6 months to complete from start to finish.

7. Licensed Professional Counselor-Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling (LPC-VRC)

Licensed Professional Counselor-Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling (LPC-VRC) is a specialized type of counseling that focuses on helping individuals with disabilities to identify and achieve their vocational goals. It involves the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or learning disabilities in order to help them become more independent and successful in the workplace.

In order to become an LPC-VRC, one must first obtain a master’s degree in counseling from an accredited university. After completing the degree program, applicants must pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Once they have passed the NCE, they can apply for licensure as an LPC-VRC through their state licensing board.

The cost of obtaining an LPC-VRC varies depending on which state you are in and how much education you need to complete. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $5,000-$20,000 or more depending on your educational requirements.

Once you have obtained your license as an LPC-VRC, you will be able to practice independently or work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, community mental health centers, private practices, schools and universities. You may also choose to specialize in a particular area such as geriatrics or substance abuse counseling.

Overall, becoming an LPC-VRC requires significant commitment and dedication but can be very rewarding for those who are willing to put in the time and effort required to become licensed.

8. Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP)

Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) is a credential offered by the National Association of Supported Employment (NASe). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in providing supported employment services to individuals with disabilities.

The CESP credential requires that the individual demonstrate mastery of the core competencies for supported employment, as well as knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and laws related to supported employment. The credential is valid for three years from the date of issue.

To become certified, an individual must meet the following requirements: be at least 18 years old; have a minimum of two years experience in providing supported employment services; complete a minimum of 24 hours of approved training related to supported employment; pass an examination administered by NASe; and submit all required documentation.

The cost for certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NASe. For non-members, it costs $250 to apply for certification. For members, it costs $200 to apply for certification.

9. National Board for Certified Counselors – Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling Certification (NBCC-VRC)

The National Board for Certified Counselors – Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling Certification (NBCC-VRC) is a certification program offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The NBCC-VRC certification is designed to recognize counselors who have demonstrated expertise in vocational rehabilitation counseling. This certification is intended to help counselors demonstrate their knowledge and skills in this specialized area of counseling.

To become certified, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the NBCC. These include having a master’s degree or higher in counseling from an accredited institution, at least two years of post-master’s supervised experience in vocational rehabilitation counseling, and passing the NBCC-VRC exam. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for certification through the NBCC website.

The application process typically takes about six weeks to complete and includes submitting proof of eligibility requirements, such as transcripts and verification of supervised experience. Applicants must also submit payment for the application fee and exam fee before they can take the exam. The application fee is $100 and the exam fee is $200.

Once an applicant has completed all required steps and passed the exam, they will receive their official NBCC-VRC certificate. This certificate is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years to remain active. Renewal requires completing continuing education credits related to vocational rehabilitation counseling as well as paying a renewal fee of $100 every five years.

Overall, obtaining an NBCC-VRC certification requires meeting certain eligibility requirements, submitting an application with supporting documentation, passing an exam, and paying applicable fees. The total cost of obtaining this certification is approximately $400 plus any additional costs associated with continuing education credits needed for renewal every five years.

10. International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals – Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment Certification (IARP-VEWA)

The International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals – Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment Certification (IARP-VEWA) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who are qualified to assess and evaluate a person’s vocational potential. The certification is designed to ensure that the individual has the necessary training and expertise to accurately assess an individual’s vocational functioning, identify their strengths and weaknesses, develop appropriate intervention strategies, and provide appropriate recommendations for employment or other types of rehabilitation services.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the IARP-VEWA certification process. In order to become certified, applicants must complete an approved course in vocational evaluation and work adjustment from an accredited college or university, as well as pass a written exam. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in providing vocational evaluation services before they can apply for certification.

The cost for obtaining IARP-VEWA certification varies depending on the institution offering the coursework and exam. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD to obtain IARP-VEWA certification. This cost includes tuition fees for the coursework as well as registration fees for the exam.

In addition to completing the required coursework and passing the written exam, applicants must also submit documentation verifying their qualifications such as transcripts from previous education programs or work experience verification forms from employers. Once all requirements are met, applicants will be notified by mail if they have successfully passed their exam and been granted IARP-VEWA certification status.

11. American Board for Vocational Experts – Diplomate in Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment Certification (ABVE-DVEWA).

The American Board for Vocational Experts – Diplomate in Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment Certification (ABVE-DVEWA) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate expertise in the fields of vocational evaluation, work adjustment, and job placement. The certification process is designed to ensure that certified professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality services to clients.

To become certified as an ABVE-DVEWA Diplomate, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including completing a minimum of three years of full-time experience in the field of vocational evaluation or work adjustment; passing a written examination; and completing continuing education activities. The application fee is $150 and the examination fee is $350.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the certification process. After submitting an application, applicants will receive a confirmation letter with instructions on how to register for the exam. Once registered, applicants can take the exam at any approved testing center throughout the United States. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official ABVE-DVEWA Diplomate certificate within four weeks.

The ABVE-DVEWA Diplomate certification demonstrates an individual's commitment to providing quality services in vocational evaluation and work adjustment. It also serves as evidence of expertise in these areas, which can be beneficial for job seekers seeking positions in these fields.

Do You Really Need a Vocational Counselor Certificate?

A vocational counselor certificate is an important credential for professionals who help people find and maintain meaningful employment. Vocational counselors are responsible for helping individuals develop job skills, explore career options, and establish a job search plan. They also provide guidance on how to stay motivated in the job search process, how to network effectively, and how to make a successful transition into the workplace.

Having a vocational counseling certification can open up opportunities for those seeking to become professional counselors in this field. It also shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective counselor. It is important to note that while having a certificate may be beneficial, it is not required in order to become a successful vocational counselor.

The most important factor in becoming a successful vocational counselor is your experience and ability to connect with clients. Being able to build trust with clients and understand their individual needs are essential components of being an effective counselor. Having strong communication skills, being organized, and developing good relationships with employers are also key skills that will contribute to success as a vocational counselor.

In conclusion, while having a vocational counseling certification can be beneficial, it is not necessarily required for success in this field. What matters most is your experience working with clients and your ability to build trusting relationships with them. If you possess these qualities along with strong communication skills, organization abilities, and good relationships with employers then you should be able to succeed as a vocational counselor without needing a certificate or additional credentials.

Related: Vocational Counselor Resume Examples

FAQs About Vocational Counselor Certifications

Q1: What is a vocational counselor certification?

A1: A vocational counselor certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills when it comes to providing career counseling services. It is offered by various organizations, such as the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and the American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB).

Q2: How do I obtain a vocational counselor certification?

A2: To obtain a vocational counselor certification, you must meet certain educational, training, and experience requirements. Additionally, you must pass an exam administered by the certifying organization in order to receive your credential.

Q3: How long does it take to become certified as a vocational counselor?

A3: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a vocational counselor depends on several factors, such as your educational background, prior experience, and the certifying organization you choose. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 12 months to 5 years or more.

Q4: What is the cost of obtaining a vocational counselor certification?

A4: The cost of obtaining a vocational counselor certification varies depending on the certifying organization you choose and other factors such as course fees and exam costs. Generally speaking, costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Q5: Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

A5: Yes, most certifying organizations require that certified counselors complete continuing education units (CEUs) in order to maintain their credentials. The number of CEUs required varies by organization but typically ranges from 10-20 hours per year.