This study investigates rehabilitation counseling to determine critical job requirements, training needs, and differences in counselor perception of critical incidents as a function of academic preparation. A questionnaire requesting one effective and one ineffective counseling incident was distributed to 404 counselors and supervisors from Division of Vocational Rehabilitation agencies in 20 states. Critical counseling requirements on sub-roles were: (1) creation of an acceptant therapeutic climate, (2) collaboration between counselor and client in a mutually controlled experience, (3) picturing client problems through relation of client ideas and counselor observation to the client's vocational potential, (4) giving information and facts, (5) definition of limits and responsibilities, (6) gathering information about the client, and (7) arranging appointments and referrals for the client. Trained counselors were significantly more concerned than untrained counselors with (1) ability to establish a counseling relationship, (2) recognition of client readiness for counseling, and (3) effective interpretation of professional opinion and facts. Trained counselors emphasized working together with the client, while untrained counselors emphasized advising or directing the client. Suggestions are made for implementing these findings in training and supervisory programs. (BP)