St. Cloud State University

Graduate Programs-Rehabilitation Counseling

Mission Statement

The general purpose of the Rehabilitation Counseling program is that of educating students in the areas of rehabilitation and psychological services, and helping them develop the professional understanding, knowledge, attitude, and skill needed to assist individuals and groups with disabilities in achieving their maximum level of independence and functioning.

The program specifics designed to achieve the general purpose are as follows:

1. Students are encouraged to join and participate in appropriate professional activities and to develop enthusiasm for work in Rehabilitation Counseling. For example, the National Rehabilitation Association or the National Rehabilitation Counseling Association.
2. By means of course work and interaction with professional staff, students should develop knowledge, understanding, and a professional attitude toward the Rehabilitation Counseling setting in which he/she will work as well as any related “helping” community agencies.
3. By means of course work, interaction with professional staff, and direct experience, students should develop an understanding of the research process as it applies to Rehabilitation Counseling.
4. By means of course work and interaction with professional staff, students should develop knowledge, understanding, and professional attitude and skills needed to relate effectively with individuals, groups and institutions, and to develop an understanding of principles of program design, implementation, and evaluation within the work setting which will help those individuals.
5. By means of course work and interaction with professional staff, students should learn to communicate more effectively, both orally and in writing.
6. By means of course work and interaction with professional staff, students should understand the philosophies and techniques pertinent to Rehabilitation Counseling and should develop his/her own professional acceptance skills in using these techniques to help others.
7. By means of course work and interaction with professional staff, students should develop greater self understanding.
8. By means of course work, interaction with professional staff, and direct experiences students should be prepared for doctoral level training and/or certification.