Elizabeth Watson

Elizabeth's path to becoming a rehabilitation professional...

When I graduated from undergraduate school, a family friend was a rehabilitation counselor and the more I learned about rehabilitation counseling the more interested I became. I started graduate school and have never looked back.

Elizabeth's rehabilitation education...

I have an undergraduate degree in education and a master's of science degree in rehabilitation counseling from Southern Illinois University. I remain in contact with graduates of Southern Illinois University.

Elizabeth describes the development of her practice...

Over my rehabilitation career, I have worked in many settings. In 2004, I started my own company and although there are many challenges to running your own business, I enjoy the freedom that working for myself allows. However, if not for fellow rehabilitation professionals that willingly share their experiences and suggestions, I do not think that I would be as successful in my own practice.

Elizabeth's "Ah-Ha!" moments that shaped or changed her career path...

In 2003, I was working with a high school student with a brain injury. As part of my work with him, I reviewed his transition plan written by his school. His transition plan was not good, it was a totally unrealistic plan for the young man and my "Ah-Ha" moment was when I realized my rehabilitation counseling background could be put to good use advocating for students and their parents. Working with special education students and providing sound rehabilitation assessment and recommendations is the most rewarding work I have done.

Elizabeth describes how IARP serves her career..

I cannot imagine not being involved with IARP on the national and state level as the networking opportunities has been a tremendous value to my professional development. They are also a fun group of people!

Elizabeth's advice to folks considering a career as a rehabilitation professional?

There will always be a need for rehabilitation professionals and there are so many different settings to work in ...and there is always something new to learn.