The mission of the Master of Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling (MCRC) program is to prepare ethical, knowledgeable, and professionally competent rehabilitation counselors who are committed to advancing well-being and empowerment for individuals with disabilities, and who are dedicated to lifelong professional development.

We foster students' professional identity, ethical leadership, and continuous growth through a holistic, strengths-based approach. The program equips students with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies to support independent living, promote mental wellness, and advocate for meaningful community participation for individuals with disabilities. We also facilitate pathways to a higher quality of life, including enhanced financial stability through gainful employment.

Recognizing that disabling conditions often stem from environmental factors, we promote the development and implementation of contextual interventions that reduce barriers to participation. Our commitment is to prepare graduates for professional rehabilitation counseling practice that effectively meets the needs of individuals with disabilities across a variety of circumstances.

MCRC Program Objectives

Based on the mission statement and CACREP standards, the MCRC program's objectives are for graduates to:

1. Foundational Knowledge and Core Competencies

1. Acquire comprehensive knowledge in core counseling subject areas outlined in CACREP standards
2. Acquire in-depth understanding of disabilities and the societal and environmental impacts on the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities.
3. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to serve as subject matter experts in various professional settings, effectively addressing the needs of service providers and clients.
4. Develop and apply interdisciplinary and evidence-based intervention strategies to support the independent living goals of individuals with disabilities, including securing gainful employment.
5. Utilize technology and accessibility tools ethically and effectively in service delivery.
6. Develop and implement intervention strategies that support the mental well-being of people with disabilities.

 2. Professional Identity, Ethics, and Lifelong Learning

1. Clearly and confidently identify as a member of the rehabilitation counseling profession and demonstrate a strong professional identity.
2. Engage in ethical service provision and leadership, consistently applying ethical principles to resolve complex dilemmas.
3. Commit to continuous professional development by staying informed about current intervention strategies, research, best practices, and societal factors affecting individuals with disabilities.
4. Demonstrate self-reflection regarding the impact of their services and adjust their approaches as needed to resolve contextual barriers and optimize client outcomes.

3. Advocacy and Environmental Intervention

1. Demonstrate effective advocacy skills and develop strategies that promote environmental and contextual change to support individuals with disabilities.
2. Facilitate meaningful community participation and employment by promoting independence and autonomy, honoring client self-direction in life choices.
3. Demonstrate skills and strategies in educating and advocating among the public, employers, and families to promote positive attitudes, policies, and practices that support the independence and well-being of individuals with disabilities