Counselors work in a wide variety of settings, from high schools to hospitals. They may specialize in education, family and marriage issues, law enforcement, substance abuse, or vocational guidance. What all counselors have in common, however, is a sincere desire to help, and the emotional fortitude to deal with difficult and complex human situations.
Counselors provide many different services for their clients, including ... one-on-one and group counseling, rehabilitation, and assessment. They may work with specific populations or have a diverse clientele. Counselors also serve as resources for their clients, referring them to non-counseling services as they deem appropriate
In most states, a master's degree is required to become a licensed counselor. Though the specifics vary by specialization, counseling programs generally include a mix of academic courses in the social sciences and psychology, along with several hours of hands-on training and fieldwork. Because counseling licenses must be renewed periodically, continuing education is a good option for counselors who area already practicing.
Although counselors' salaries are generally not very high compared to some occupations that require the same level of education, counselors with private or well-established practices can expect to make much more. However, most counselors will tell you that the real rewards of the job come from seeing the positive impact it has on the lives of individuals, families, and the community at large.
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