How to Become a Rehabilitation Psychologist: Complete 2025 Career Guide
Rehabilitation psychologists help people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries achieve optimal physical and psychological functioning. To become a rehabilitation psychologist, you'll need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, complete 1,500-3,000 supervised clinical hours (varies by state), and obtain state licensure. The process typically takes 8 to 10 years. Experienced doctoral-level rehabilitation psychologists earn median annual salaries of $85,000 to $95,000, with the potential to earn over $ 100,000 in specialized settings.
Rehabilitation psychology is a specialized field that helps individuals with physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries regain independence and improve their quality of life. Unlike other psychology specialties, rehabilitation psychologists work within complex medical, social, and environmental systems to address the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a rehabilitation psychologist, including education requirements, career paths, salary expectations, and the rewarding nature of this growing field.
Table of Contents
- What Is Rehabilitation Psychology?
- How to Become a Rehabilitation Psychologist: 6 Steps
- Education Requirements
- Salary and Job Outlook
- Specializations in Rehabilitation Psychology
- Where Rehabilitation Psychologists Work
- A Day in the Life
- Essential Skills and Qualities
- Technology and Innovations
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Rehabilitation Psychology?
Rehabilitation psychology is a specialty within professional psychology that focuses on helping people with disabilities and chronic health conditions achieve optimal functioning. The field combines psychological principles with medical knowledge to address the emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and social challenges that come with disability, illness, or injury.
The scope of rehabilitation psychology is broad and includes treatment for:
- Traumatic brain injuries from accidents or sports-related concussions
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis or mobility limitations
- Stroke and cardiovascular conditions affecting cognitive and physical abilities
- Chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia or back pain
- Neuromuscular disorders, including multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy
- Developmental disabilities affecting children and adults
- Cancer and other life-threatening illnesses
- Substance abuse disorders require rehabilitation
- Hearing and vision loss requiring adaptation strategies
Quick Facts About Rehabilitation Psychology
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates more than 16 million people in the US live with cognitive impairment, twice the population of New York City.
- Nearly 20% of Americans (approximately 61 million people) have some form of disability, according to US Census data.
- The American Psychological Association established Division 22 (Rehabilitation Psychology) in 1958, and formally recognized it as an official specialty in professional psychology in 2015.
How to Become a Rehabilitation Psychologist: 6 Steps
Becoming a rehabilitation psychologist requires extensive education and training. Here's the step-by-step pathway:
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)
Start with a bachelor's degree in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field. Focus on courses in:
- Abnormal psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Biological psychology
- Research methods and statistics
- Neuroscience
Maintain a strong GPA (3.5+) and gain research or volunteer experience in rehabilitation settings, hospitals, or disability advocacy organizations.
Step 2: Complete a Master's Degree (2-3 Years) - Optional
While not always required, many students earn a master's degree in psychology, rehabilitation counseling, or a related field. This can strengthen your doctoral program applications and provide valuable clinical experience. Some programs offer terminal master's degrees for individuals seeking to work as rehabilitation counselors.
Step 3: Earn a Doctoral Degree (5-7 Years)
A doctoral degree is required to practice as a rehabilitation psychologist. You have two options:
| Degree Type | Focus | Best For | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) | Research and clinical practice | Those interested in research, academia, or both research and practice | 5-7 years |
| PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) | Clinical practice emphasis | Those focused primarily on direct patient care | 4-6 years |
Look for programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) with specializations in rehabilitation, health psychology, or neuropsychology.
Step 4: Complete Supervised Clinical Hours (1-2 Years)
During your doctoral program, you'll complete supervised practicum experiences. After graduation, licensing requirements vary significantly from state to state. Most states require 1,500-3,000 supervised clinical hours working under the supervision of a licensed psychologist in rehabilitation settings. For example, California requires a total of 3,000 hours (some of which can be completed during doctoral training), while other states may need fewer hours post-graduation. Check your specific state's licensing board for exact requirements.
Step 5: Pass Licensing Exams
To practice independently, you must:
- Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
- Meet your state's specific licensing requirements (which may include additional state-specific exams)
- Complete continuing education requirements for license maintenance
Step 6: Obtain Board Certification (Optional)
Consider earning board certification through the American Board of Rehabilitation Psychology (ABRP), established in 1995. Board certification demonstrates advanced expertise and can enhance career opportunities.
Education Requirements in Detail
Doctoral Program Coursework
Rehabilitation psychology doctoral programs typically include:
- Core psychology courses: Cognitive psychology, social psychology, psychopathology, psychological assessment
- Rehabilitation-specific courses: Disability studies, assistive technology, chronic illness management, neuropsychological assessment
- Research methods: Advanced statistics, research design, dissertation
- Clinical training: Supervised practicum, internship in rehabilitation settings
- Specialized topics: Brain injury rehabilitation, pain management, pediatric rehabilitation, geriatric rehabilitation
Accreditation Matters
Choose programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Graduation from an APA-accredited program is often required for licensure and significantly improves job prospects.
Salary and Job Outlook
Rehabilitation psychologists can expect competitive salaries that vary based on factors such as work setting, geographic location, experience level, and specialization.
Mental Health Counseling Professionals Salary Data
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data), mental health and substance abuse counselors (a related field requiring master's-level training) earn:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,090 | $18.79 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,170 | $22.68 |
| Median (50th) | $59,190 | $28.46 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,230 | $36.65 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,210 | $47.22 |
| Mean (Average) | $65,100 | $31.30 |
Important Note: The data above reflects master's-level mental health counseling positions. Doctoral-level rehabilitation psychologists typically earn significantly more, with median salaries generally ranging from $85,000 to $95,000 for experienced practitioners and up to $ 100,000 to $120,000 or more in specialized settings or private practice. Entry-level positions for newly licensed psychologists typically start in the $70,000- to $80,000 range. Salary also varies considerably by geographic location, with major metropolitan areas offering higher compensation.
Salary by Work Setting (Doctoral-Level Psychologists)
| Work Setting | Typical Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitals & Medical Centers | $75,000 - $105,000 | Higher salaries in major metropolitan areas |
| Rehabilitation Facilities | $70,000 - $95,000 | Varies by facility size and location |
| Private Practice | $80,000 - $150,000+ | Income depends on caseload and specialization |
| Universities & Research | $65,000 - $95,000 | Plus benefits: opportunity for research funding |
| Government Agencies (VA) | $80,000 - $120,000 | VA hospitals often pay competitively with excellent benefits |
Job Outlook and Growth
The demand for rehabilitation psychologists is growing due to several factors:
- Aging population: More older adults require rehabilitation services for age-related conditions
- Medical advances: People are surviving injuries and illnesses that once would have been fatal, creating an increased need for rehabilitation
- Mental health awareness: Greater recognition of psychological aspects of physical rehabilitation
- Sports psychology integration: Growing awareness of concussion effects and the need for brain injury rehabilitation in athletics
- Veteran care: Ongoing need for rehabilitation services for military veterans
Specializations in Rehabilitation Psychology
Rehabilitation psychologists can focus on specific populations or conditions:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation
TBI rehabilitation has gained significant attention, especially regarding sports-related concussions. Research from Boston University's CTE Center found that among 376 deceased NFL players whose brains were donated for research, 345 (91.7%) were diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease. It's important to note this represents a biased sample, as families typically donate brains when they suspect CTE, not a random sample of all players.
Rehabilitation psychologists specializing in TBI help athletes and others:
- Assess cognitive functioning after head injuries
- Develop return-to-play protocols
- Provide cognitive rehabilitation therapy
- Address emotional challenges like depression and anger
- Work with families and caregivers
Dr. Ildiko Tabori, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychology and geriatrics, shares a case example: A young patient had been in multiple automobile accidents within a short period. Her doctor found no underlying physical issues explaining her confusion and feeling overwhelmed. Dr. Tabori diagnosed post-concussion syndrome and provided the patient with educational resources.
"We don't always understand the relationship between brain functioning and psychological functioning, but by educating people and giving them the resources needed to understand this relationship, we can greatly influence outcomes and contribute to their wellness and recovery."
Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
Helps individuals adjust to paralysis and mobility limitations, addressing psychological challenges like depression, body image concerns, and relationship changes.
Chronic Pain Management
Uses cognitive-behavioral approaches to help patients cope with ongoing pain conditions, improving quality of life when pain cannot be eliminated.
Pediatric Rehabilitation
Section 1 of the APA's Division 22 focuses on pediatric rehabilitation psychology. Leading programs, such as C.S. Mott Children's Hospital in Michigan and Seattle Children's Hospital, provide comprehensive psychological services for children with disabilities.
Pediatric rehabilitation psychologists address:
- Developmental delays and disabilities
- Congenital conditions affecting physical or cognitive function
- Traumatic injuries in children
- Family adjustment and coping strategies
- School reintegration and educational advocacy
Geriatric Rehabilitation
Focuses on older adults recovering from strokes, falls, surgeries, or managing age-related cognitive decline and chronic conditions.
Sports Injury Rehabilitation
Works with athletes recovering from injuries, addressing both physical rehabilitation and psychological factors like performance anxiety, identity changes, and return-to-competition stress.
Where Rehabilitation Psychologists Work
Rehabilitation psychologists practice in diverse settings:
- General hospitals with rehabilitation units
- Specialized rehabilitation centers focusing on specific conditions (brain injury, spinal cord injury)
- Outpatient clinics providing ongoing therapy
- Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals serving military veterans
- Children's hospitals with pediatric rehabilitation programs
- Private practice offering individual or group therapy
- Universities teaching and conducting research
- Sports medicine facilities working with athletes
- Research institutions studying rehabilitation interventions
- Government agencies developing disability policy and advocacy programs
A Day in the Life of a Rehabilitation Psychologist
While each day varies depending on the setting, a typical day might include:
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- 8:00-8:30: Review patient charts and prepare for the day's sessions
- 8:30-9:30: Conduct a neuropsychological assessment with a stroke patient, evaluating cognitive function
- 9:30-10:00: Team meeting with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and physicians to coordinate care for three patients
- 10:00-11:00: Individual therapy session with spinal cord injury patient working on depression and adjustment
- 11:00-12:00: Family consultation helping caregivers develop strategies for supporting loved ones' recovery
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
- 12:00-1:00: Lunch and documentation of morning sessions
- 1:00-2:00: Conduct cognitive rehabilitation exercises with a traumatic brain injury patient
- 2:00-3:00: Supervise doctoral student intern's case presentation
- 3:00-4:00: Consultation with insurance company regarding treatment plan authorization
- 4:00-5:00: Complete documentation, respond to emails, schedule follow-up appointments
Essential Skills and Qualities
Successful rehabilitation psychologists possess:
- Empathy and patience: Working with people facing life-changing challenges requires deep compassion
- Strong assessment skills: Ability to evaluate cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: Working effectively with medical professionals, therapists, and other specialists
- Cultural competence: Understanding how disability is viewed across different cultures
- Problem-solving abilities: Developing creative solutions for complex challenges
- Communication skills: Explaining complex concepts to patients, families, and other professionals
- Resilience: Managing the emotional demands of working with patients facing serious challenges
- Advocacy skills: Fighting for patient rights and improved disability services
Technology and Innovations in Rehabilitation Psychology
Technology is transforming rehabilitation psychology practice:
Virtual Reality (VR) Rehabilitation
Korean health tech company Neofect created the Raphael Smart Glove, which utilizes robotics and virtual reality to assist stroke victims in regaining hand function. The system uses games to motivate patients while their doctors receive valuable data regarding rehabilitation progress.
According to Ho Young Ban of Neofect (2016, "The main difference from traditional techniques is that we use innovations in technology to motivate the clients. The vast majority of stroke victims don't complete their rehabilitation process because of the costs associated with it, and the frustration over a slow process. We use games to motivate them while their doctors, in turn, receive valuable data regarding the rehabilitation progress."
Cognitive Training Software
Dr. Bart Rossi, a board-certified clinical psychologist, notes: "Current breakthroughs in rehabilitation psychology include the use of technology with digital platforms and computers where patients, who are undergoing both physical and mental rehabilitation, such as from traumatic brain injuries, can benefit and relearn basic skills from games and other software programs."
Programs like Lumosity offer cognitive training exercises that can supplement traditional therapy for patients with dementia and brain injuries.
Telehealth and Remote Rehabilitation
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the adoption of telehealth services. According to the American Psychological Association, telehealth usage among psychologists increased from 7% pre-pandemic to over 85% during 2020-2021. This shift has made rehabilitation psychology more accessible to patients with mobility limitations or those in rural areas, and many practitioners continue to offer hybrid in-person and virtual services.
Assistive Technology Integration
Rehabilitation psychologists are increasingly helping patients adapt to assistive technologies, ranging from computerized communication devices to advanced prosthetics with neural interfaces.
Treatment Approaches in Rehabilitation Psychology
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dr. Kelley Kitley, a psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker, emphasizes the importance of addressing stigma: "People with disabilities or mental health issues often feel ashamed, or they feel abnormal. Educating people through the use of media and through social networking can help eliminate many of these feelings and concerns, and alter how society views disabilities in general."
Dr. Bart Rossi notes: "A lot can be done today with cognitive behavior therapy. Encourage people to think differently about their situation or problems, adjust their expectations, and help them become more realistic about both immediate and long-term outcomes. They will respond more favorably to therapy."
Guided Imagery
Rehabilitation facilities are increasingly using guided imagery, where trained psychologists help patients envision positive future outcomes by focusing their attention on pleasant and self-affirming experiences.
Motivational Interviewing
Helps patients develop intrinsic motivation to engage in strenuous rehabilitation activities and make lifestyle changes.
The History and Evolution of Rehabilitation Psychology
Understanding the field's history provides context for its current scope:
- World War II: Rehabilitation psychology emerged to meet the educational and vocational needs of veterans with disabilities
- 1958: APA established Division 22 (Rehabilitation Psychology)
- 1973: Rehabilitation Act passed, significantly affecting field growth
- 1990: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted, prohibiting discrimination
- 1994: Division 22 Psychological Services Committee assumed leadership role in APA Practice Directorate's Federal Advocacy Network
- 1995: American Board of Rehabilitation Psychology (ABRP) established
- 2010: Foundation for Rehabilitation Psychology established
- 2015: APA Council formally recognized Rehabilitation Psychology as a specialty in professional psychology
Comparing Rehabilitation Psychology to Related Fields
Understanding how rehabilitation psychology differs from related specialties helps clarify career decisions:
| Specialty | Primary Focus | Typical Setting | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation Psychology | Disabilities, chronic illness, injury recovery | Hospitals, rehab centers | Integrates medical and psychological approaches |
| Clinical Psychology | Mental health disorders | Private practice, clinics | Broader mental health focus, less medical integration |
| Health Psychology | Health behaviors, prevention, wellness | Medical centers, research | More prevention-focused than rehabilitation |
| Neuropsychology | Brain-behavior relationships, assessment | Hospitals, clinics | More assessment-focused, less direct intervention |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a rehabilitation psychologist?
The complete journey typically takes 8-10 years after high school: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 5-7 years for a doctoral degree (including clinical training), and 1-2 years completing supervised clinical hours for licensure. Some students complete a master's degree first, adding 2-3 years to their educational timeline.
What's the difference between a rehabilitation psychologist and a rehabilitation counselor?
Rehabilitation psychologists hold doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD), can diagnose mental health conditions, conduct psychological testing, and practice independently as licensed psychologists. Rehabilitation counselors typically hold master's degrees and focus on vocational rehabilitation, helping clients find employment. Both work with people with disabilities but have different training levels and scopes of practice.
Do I need a PhD or PsyD to become a rehabilitation psychologist?
Either degree allows you to practice as a rehabilitation psychologist. PhDs emphasize research and are ideal if you're interested in academia or conducting research studies. PsyDs focus more on clinical practice and are better suited for those primarily interested in patient care. Both require similar clinical training and lead to licensure.
Can I specialize in rehabilitation psychology during my doctoral program?
Yes, many doctoral programs offer specialization tracks in rehabilitation psychology or related fields, such as health psychology or neuropsychology. Look for APA-accredited programs that offer practicum placements in rehabilitation settings and faculty members conducting rehabilitation research.
What's the job outlook for rehabilitation psychologists?
The outlook is positive due to an aging population, increased survival rates from serious injuries and illnesses, growing awareness of concussion effects in sports, and expanded mental health services for veterans. The demand for psychologists who understand the intersection of physical and mental health continues to grow.
Where do most rehabilitation psychologists work?
Most work in hospitals (general or specialized rehabilitation facilities), outpatient medical centers, VA hospitals, private practice, or academic medical centers. Some work in research, policy advocacy, or university settings, combining clinical work with teaching and research.
What populations do rehabilitation psychologists serve?
Rehabilitation psychologists work with diverse populations, including traumatic brain injury survivors, spinal cord injury patients, stroke survivors, people with chronic pain, individuals with developmental disabilities, children with congenital conditions, older adults with age-related decline, athletes recovering from injuries, veterans with service-related disabilities, and cancer survivors.
Is board certification necessary?
Board certification through the American Board of Rehabilitation Psychology (ABRP) is optional but demonstrates advanced expertise. While not required for practice, it can enhance credibility, improve job prospects, and may be preferred by some employers, especially in academic medical centers.
Key Takeaways
- Doctoral degree required: Becoming a rehabilitation psychologist requires a PhD or PsyD, taking 8-10 years total after high school
- State licensure varies: Supervised clinical hour requirements range from 1,500 to 3,000 hours, depending on your state.
- Growing demand: Job outlook is positive due to aging populations, medical advances, and increased awareness of mental health in rehabilitation
- Competitive salaries: Doctoral-level rehabilitation psychologists typically earn a median salary of $85,0000-$95,000 median salary, with potential to exceed $100,000+ in specialized settings
- Diverse specializations: Options include brain injury, spinal cord injury, pediatric rehabilitation, geriatric care, chronic pain, and sports psychology
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: Success requires working effectively with physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals
- Technology integration: The field increasingly uses VR, cognitive training software, telehealth, and assistive technologies
- Meaningful impact: Rehabilitation psychologists help people regain independence and improve quality of life after life-changing injuries or illnesses
Ready to Start Your Rehabilitation Psychology Career?
Take the first step toward a rewarding career in psychology by exploring accredited doctoral programs. Whether you're interested in clinical practice, research, or both, rehabilitation psychology offers the opportunity to make a profound difference in people's lives during their most challenging times.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health, and Mental Health Counselors are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
