About Certification

Not All Certifications are Alike – The CRC Difference


The Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) sets the standard for quality rehabilitation counseling services in the United States and Canada. As an independent, not-for-profit organization, the CRCC has certified more than 35,000 counselors with its widely recognized Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) designation.

From time-to-time, organizations surface that may not adhere to the same standards as other well-respected organizations, such as the CRCC. This is because certification, as opposed to state licensure, is a voluntary process that is not government regulated.

Major distinctions of CRC certification are:

  • National Accreditation: The CRCC holds long-standing accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Visit www.noca.org (opens in a new window) for more information about NCCA requirements for accredited organizations.
  • Eligibility Requirements: CRCC has established specific eligibility requirements for certification, such as advanced education and work experience. Eligibility categories are based on research into current practices and requirements in the field.
  • Competency Standards: A passing score on the CRC certification exam ensures that applicants meet nationally-accepted, key competency standards based on current practice in the field. Research is conducted at regular intervals to ensure the ongoing validity of the exam.
  • Code of Ethics: CRCs are required to adhere to the CRCC’s Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors as overseen by the CRCC Ethics Committee.
  • Skill Development: CRCC requires that individuals renew their certification every five years by documenting the accrual of at least 100 clock hours of continuing education or by re-examination.
  • Current Practices: The CRCC is committed to the continuous improvement and updating of the research which forms the foundation of the CRC examination, as well as the techniques used to validate the exam through its administration. The certification process is built upon 40 years of empirical research of the competencies and job functions that are vital to the counselor's performance.
  • Written Policies: The CRCC has clearly stated policies and procedures regarding all aspects of its certification process as outlined in the CRC Certification Guide.

Advantages of CRC Certification

For the professional rehabilitation counselor, CRC certification:
  • Establishes a professional identity,
  • Establishes a minimum level of knowledge and a continuous upgrading of skills,
  • Promulgates a code of ethical practice,
  • Provides a review process of published standards of practice,
  • Promotes ongoing role and function studies to validate their practice,
  • Provides employers and clients with a recognizable point of difference,
  • Is required by many state agencies, and
  • Can lead to faster career and salary advancement.