Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

The Soldiers Rehabilitation Act of 1918 is recognized as the first piece of legislation specifically designed to support the practice of vocational rehabilitation. This act emerged after World War I to address the needs of returning veterans who had been injured during the war. It aimed to provide these veterans with the necessary training and support to help them reintegrate into civilian life and secure employment. By focusing on vocational rehabilitation for those who had served, the initiative laid the groundwork for future legislation that would expand vocational rehabilitation services to a broader population, including individuals with disabilities.

The significance of this act set a precedent and underscored the importance of supporting individuals in their rehabilitation journey, making it a foundational piece in the development of vocational rehabilitation services. Subsequent legislation, such as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and others, built upon the principles started by the Soldiers Rehabilitation Act, but this initial act was unique in its primary focus on veterans returning from military service.