Evaluating Curricular Influence on Preparation for Practice, Career Outcomes, and Job Satisfaction: Results From an Alumni Survey of a 40-Year Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling Program

Abstract

Alumni of a Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE)-accredited graduate rehabilitation counselor education (RCE) program were surveyed to evaluate career outcomes, job satisfaction, licensure and certification rates, client populations served, and RCE program satisfaction and effectiveness. Results indicate a high level of satisfaction with the program and career outcomes and confirm the program's effectiveness in meeting the education and career needs of its graduates. Information obtained provides valuable insight for other RCE programs that aspire to improve and grow to meet the needs of their students and the field.

Understanding Differences between CORE and CACREP Counselors-in-Training Perceptions of Self-Efficacy

“…In 2008, there were 665,000 counselors within the United States (Smith, Reid, Henry, Dixon, & Wright, 2013). Due to the current state of mental health, the need for competent mental health and rehabilitation counselors to serve the needs of individuals with mental illnesses is evident.…”

“…Due to the current state of mental health, the need for competent mental health and rehabilitation counselors to serve the needs of individuals with mental illnesses is evident. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2014), it is estimated the labor market will increase by 24% for mental health counselors, 19% for rehabilitation counselors, and 21% for substance abuse counselors by the year 2018 (Smith et al, 2013).…”

“…Mental health counselors promote optimum mental and emotional health by working with persons with mental illnesses through individual and group counseling sessions (Smith et al, 2013). In order to be effective and successful as a mental health counselor, counselors must exhibit self-control, concern for others, integrity, stress tolerance, and dependability (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014).…”