Counselor

What a Counselor Does

There are many different types of counselors, from those who help people with marital issues to those who specialize in working with children. What all these varied types of counseling have in common is that counselors work with patients through regular therapy sessions. They often simply listen to patients talk as they express their fears, concerns and desires. Counselors will often take notes as their patients talk so they do not forget important aspects of the conversation. Counselors can also provide guidance for these patients, helping them see ways they can improve their lives and become happier, more fulfilled individuals. Often, their patients will be going through a crisis, dealing with mental health problems or simply finding themselves unhappy, but virtually anyone can benefit from the advice and insights provided by qualified counselors. Most counselors work in independent or group practices, and will schedule appointments with patients to visit them and talk in private sessions.

How to Become a Counselor

To become a counselor, you'll need to attend a college or university that has a psychology, social work or counseling degree program. While some jobs may be available to those with a bachelor's degree, most students who hope to become counselors will have to complete at least a Master's degree program. Coursework for counselors will include topics like human growth and development, sociology, group work, career development and counseling techniques. In addition to this classroom instruction, clinical experience must be completed as well, and students will get a chance to put their knowledge to use in counseling sessions with patients. Once individuals have graduated from a degree program, the next step to working as a counselor is to obtain licensing. While requirements differ from state to state, most will need to complete a Master's program plus a set amount of clinical hours in order to become licensed.

Career Outlook for Counselors

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job growth for those in counseling should be faster than the average for all occupations. While job opportunities will differ by specialty, overall the field should see a rise of about 18% over the next decade. This is driven in part by retirement of older counselors and also by the need for more qualified professionals in communities, especially rural ones, across the United States. Those in mental health counseling will see the greatest growth, estimated to be 24%, but substance abuse counselors and rehabilitation counselors aren't far behind with growth of 20%. The slowest growth in this field will still be well above average with marriage and family counselors growing about 14% through 2018. Like many fields, counseling rewards additional training, and those who work to complete doctoral degrees or get certification will enjoy the best opportunities for employment.