Counseling Careers

Counseling encompasses a diverse group of careers with the common goal of helping others. Several different specialties are included within the counseling field, including; mental health, substance abuse, and school counselors. Within these specialties, there are different theories of treatment as well.

What can a counselor do?
Often the work a counselor performs is similar regardless of the field. Counselors meet with their clients regularly to help with their goals. Due to the nature of their work, counselors must be trustworthy and genuinely dedicated to helping their clients. Many counselors discuss very private issues on a daily basis and must be prepared to handle tense emotional situations. Typically, counselors rate highly on analytical and communication skills on career aptitude tests.

What are the job functions of a counselor?
The normal job functions of a counselor vary based on the specialty. Most counselors will spend the bulk of their day in sessions meeting with clients. Sessions can be as varied as discussing a client’s job prospects to discussing why an addict had a relapse. The counselor will advise their client and encourage their progress. Sometimes counselors work hand in hand with psychologists to provide both clinical and emotional therapy.

School counselors work differently in that they seek out their clients. They observe students and monitor their work. School counselors can act as preventative medicine by identifying and addressing potential problems before they spiral out of control. In addition school counselors help to prepare students for the future by discussing college and career options. In doing so school counselors also function as vocational counselors.

What tools do vocational conselors use?
Vocational counselors use various tools such as career assessment tests to help workers determine what career options they may be suited for. They work with employers and job seekers to find the best possible employment matches. More than staffing agents, vocational counselors are concerned with finding the right career for an employee rather than just a job.

Are there any other areas of specialization for a counselor?
There are still more areas in which a counselor can specialize. Through the course of their education, an aspiring counselor will be exposed to all the different facets of counseling. Even so, counselors must also constantly update their skills and be aware of new ideas and trends in their field. Counseling is a diverse and rewarding field for the right individual that is dedicated to providing assistance to those who are in need.

US Department of Labor Occupational Outlook
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos067.htm

Other types of Medical and healthcare careers :

• Holistic medicine
• Home health
• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The growth outlook for Counseling careers is estimated at about 13% while the estimated growth for all career fields over that same span is at about 10.12%. Over the next six years, Counseling jobs are expected to grow at a 28% higher rate than the national average for annual salaries.