What Is Career Counseling?

An individual may consider career counseling to assist with changing jobs for mental health, as a third of their life is spent at work. Finding a fulfilling career that offers a healthy environment and successful career development can be valuable. However, because of how impactful a career can be, making significant career decisions can feel daunting. If you're looking for career guidance, resources like taking a career test, using an Occupational Outlook tool, or career counseling services may be supportive.

How can career counseling help me?

According to a 2014 study, only 52.3% of people say they're happy with their employment situation. Since you may spend a lot of time at work, a career that makes you unhappy or causes you to feel drained or stressed could take a toll on your mental health. An unhealthy work environment could lead to anxiety, depression, mood changes, or physical health challenges. 

There are many reasons someone might seek out a career counselor, and it can be used throughout various life stages. Some individuals might turn to this type of counselor if they feel unhappy or want to change careers. For example, they might find that:

• They don't like their career field.

• They feel drained by work.

• The environment in their career is unhealthy.

• Their career or work-life balance is poor.

• Their earning potential is limited.

Career counseling could also be a valuable option for someone who feels they want to make a change, whether they've been in one career for a long time and feel bored or have always dreamed of a new career path but are nervous about making the jump. Finally, career counseling is also commonly sought by those looking for their first job and planning for the future. For this reason, higher education institutions often prioritize helping students find the right career through career counseling services.

Types of career counseling

Career counseling can take many forms, including individually or in small groups, and be done with the guidance of various career professionals. Counseling can also occur at separate times in your career, whether you're just starting or looking for a career change after a decade or two. Career assessments may be performed by a school counselor, a life coach, a professional counselor, or someone who specializes in career counseling, and the provider you choose can depend on your goals for the job search. 

School counselors

A school counselor or advisor could offer one-on-one conversations if you're a student or alumni trying to decide on a major or want to understand what jobs to pursue with a specific degree path. They may assist you in finding colleges that offer majors in line with your career needs and help you to identify what you want out of your career after college and then work with you to outline the subjects to research and the educational steps you can take to get there. 

Professional career coaches

You may also be able to set up career counseling sessions with someone who specializes in professional career counseling if you are thinking you want to change careers. Counselors work by diving deeply into varying elements of your professional abilities, career history, and goals. They may start by administering tests to understand your personality, strengths, values, and interests and see what work you may be best suited for. 

A career counselor might also interview you about what you want in a career, such as work-life balance, salary, employers, and impact. Then, they can work with you to devise a process for achieving the career you want. 

A life coach might take a goal-oriented approach to career counseling. They could encourage you to envision your ideal life, including what you see yourself doing for your career. They might then help you break down the steps you'll need to take to get there, including soft and hard skills. For example, you could learn anything from getting a specialized degree to building self-confidence. Career coaches may take a more holistic approach to career guidance, which can dramatically affect the lives of clients needing assistance. They may or may not have a degree or license in job counseling or a related field.  

Deciding to meet with a counselor can also allow you to receive knowledge and guidance on your career. They may utilize a broader view of your life, outlook, and mental health status, considering your career as a piece of that. They may help you get to know yourself better so you can choose a fitting career, build self-confidence for the roles you seek, and set healthy boundaries with bosses and colleagues at work. If your job negatively impacts your mental health, they may provide support and guidance on making adjustments so that you can find a career that allows for work/life balance and other benefits that may support you mentally.

How to find a counselor for job coaching and development

Connecting with your university counselor or advisor can be a beneficial first step if you're a student. School counselors are often free and can provide advice related to your specific course of study or the programs available at your school. However, they might only suggest career options that require an education since the school employs them. 

How to find professional career counseling for career guidance

If you're interested in finding a licensed career counselor, you can try a search engine like the one offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors. It may also be worth visiting any career centers in your local area. If you're looking for a life coach, you can search through an online directory or look on a social media network. Unlike many school counselors, these psychology professionals have high qualifications and, as a result, might charge for their service. You may find that there aren’t many of these professionals in your local area, but remember that you can find a career counselor through online counseling platforms as well. This may even result in a faster-than-average connection with a professional who meets your needs and preferences.

Job advice from a licensed therapist or counselor

A career counselor is a great option, but if you'd prefer a more holistic approach to your career or want support with career-related mental health factors, a therapist may be a rewarding option. The career counselor’s role is to help you get to know yourself better so that you can make life and career choices that work for you. They can also work with you to build healthy habits that can benefit your career, such as communication, coping mechanisms for anxiety, or stress relief skills. You can look for a therapist in your area if you prefer traditional, in-person therapy. If you find it more comfortable or convenient to meet with a therapist online, you can try a virtual therapy platform for career services. 

Online counseling services may match you with a licensed counselor based on your answers to a few questions about your preferences. You can then meet with them via phone, video, or live chat sessions. Although many online platforms don't accept insurance, appointment costs can be comparable to those of many insurance co-pays. Research suggests that online counseling offers similar benefits to traditional counseling. If you're interested in online counseling, consider a platform like BetterHelp, which offers appointments with over 30,000 counselors specializing in various areas, including careers.