A rehabilitation specialist helps patients recover after an injury.
A rehabilitation specialist is a person who helps patients recover and adjust after an injury, illness, or traumatic incident. There are many varieties of rehabilitation specialists, each of which requires special training in a specific area of focus. The path to this job depends on the applicant’s interests, experience, and educational pursuit, as well as the current needs of the rehabilitation field.
Veterinarians can work with injured animals to rehabilitate them.
There are three main types of rehabilitation specialists: physical, psychological, and professional. These groups, however, are quite broad, each containing a multitude of specialized professions. For example, some physical rehabilitation specialists may work with patients who have lost a limb due to injury or who have developed a disabling musculoskeletal disorder, while others help those with speech or language problems due to medical conditions. A vocational therapist may be involved in helping mentally ill patients find jobs, or may prefer to work with recovering drug addicts or alcoholics trying to return to the workforce.
A sports-related injury can be treated by a rehabilitation specialist.
While these are just a few of the many possible careers available, working to become a rehabilitation specialist almost always begins with a college education. Vocational rehabilitation workers tend to have at least a two-year degree in behavioral apprenticeship, as well as experience with placement and employment agencies. Rehabilitation specialists who focus on helping people with mental or psychological problems often need an advanced degree in psychology, psychiatry, or behavioral science. Many jobs also require medical training to some degree, although the amount needed can vary greatly from job to job.
Rehabilitation specialists can help patients adjust to medical devices like crutches.
Even animal lovers can find fulfilling employment by choosing to become an animal rehabilitation specialist. Some veterinarians do not have the time or ability to help animals recover from illness or injury, and like humans, animals may need careful physical therapy and even behavioral training to adjust to permanent injury. An animal rehabilitation specialist will usually have some veterinary training and may need a boarding space to provide intensive care for some patients.
A rehabilitation specialist can help a patient confined to a wheelchair learn to use a wheelchair and provide guidance on how to live as independently as possible.
Taking related jobs during college can help a person who wants to become a rehabilitation specialist quickly land a position in their desired field. Volunteering at medical or rehab clinics, working at job placement agencies, or even taking on a secretarial position in a doctor’s office can pay off in the long run. By showing continued dedication to a certain field, a person can show potential employers their sincere interest. Choosing wisely, even temporary jobs, can go a long way in showing ability and passion for future permanent employment.