CRC in Pennsylvania

KWVRS experts holding CRC: Matthew R. Putts, Ph.D. (Chief of Vocational Services); Christopher Skerritt, M.Ed., MBA (Chief of Economic Services); Paul J. Bourgeois, Ph.D. (Vocational Rehabilitation Expert & Life Care Planner)

Recognition and practice information for Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in Pennsylvania.

Recognition and qualification in Pennsylvania

The CRC is the recognized national certification for rehabilitation counselors. Scope of practice includes assessment, counseling, case management, job analysis, labor market survey, transferable skills analysis, and expert testimony related to earning capacity, employability, and vocational rehabilitation services.

The Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) administers public vocational rehabilitation in Pennsylvania. KWVRS CRC-credentialed experts apply nationally recognized standards.

Pennsylvania courts and venues

Expert qualification in Pennsylvania's courts is determined case by case.

  • Court of Common Pleas - General jurisdiction; 60 judicial districts; civil, criminal, family, and orphans' court divisions
  • Magisterial District Court - Civil cases up to $12,000, summary offenses, traffic, landlord-tenant
  • Philadelphia Municipal Court - Civil cases up to $12,000 in Philadelphia; traffic and misdemeanors

Highest court: Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Federal venues: E.D. Pa., M.D. Pa., W.D. Pa..

Other credentials in Pennsylvania

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CRC a license or a certification?

The CRC is a national certification administered by CRCC. It is distinct from state licensure, though many states also license professional counselors or rehabilitation counselors separately.

What distinguishes a CRC from a vocational case manager?

The CRC is a credentialed counselor qualified to render expert opinion on earning capacity, employability, and vocational rehabilitation. Vocational case managers focus on coordinating services and returning claimants to work, without the same forensic training or opinion-giving scope.

Do courts require a CRC specifically to testify on vocational issues?

Courts do not mandate a specific credential, but CRC is among the most widely accepted credentials for vocational expert testimony. The specific credential requirement, if any, depends on jurisdictional preferences and the nature of the opinion.

How often must a CRC renew?

Every five years, with documented continuing education meeting CRCC's requirements.

References

  1. CRCC - Certification OverviewOrganization
  2. CRCC Code of Professional EthicsOrganization

Ready to Get Started on CRC engagements in Pennsylvania?

Contact KWVRS to discuss scope, timing, and the deliverables appropriate to the matter. Plaintiff and defense.