CRC in West Virginia

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 West Virginia.

Recognition and qualification in West Virginia

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 West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) administers public vocational rehabilitation in West Virginia. KWVRS CRC-credentialed experts apply nationally recognized standards.

West Virginia courts and venues

Expert qualification in West Virginia's courts is determined case by case.

  • Circuit Court - General jurisdiction; one in each of 55 counties; all civil and criminal matters
  • Magistrate Court - Civil cases up to $10,000, misdemeanors, small claims
  • Family Court - Domestic relations matters in each county

Highest court: Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia. Federal venues: N.D.W. Va., S.D.W. Va..

Other credentials in West Virginia

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 West Virginia?

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