counseling

noun

coun·​sel·​ing ˈkau̇n(t)-s(ə-)liŋ 

variants or counselling

: professional guidance of the individual by utilizing psychological methods especially in collecting case history data, using various techniques of the personal interview, and testing interests and aptitudes

career counseling for high schoolers

counseling for drug addicts

Examples of counseling in a Sentence

She is receiving counseling to cope with the death of her husband.

The college offers career counseling.

Recent Examples on the Web

Businesses can also offer additional support through HR departments and providing access to counseling, therapy sessions and health services. —John Graham Harper, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

The Montrose Center, a group serving the LGBTQIA+ Houston community, offers various services, including case management and counseling. —Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 28 May 2025

The mobile mental healthcare unit provides counseling, educational assistance, and group therapy sessions. —Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 May 2025

Case managers work for weeks or months to get parents to follow plans that include substance-abuse counseling, therapy and anger management classes. —Christopher O’Donnell, Miami Herald, 17 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

see counsel entry 1

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing counseling

• genetic counseling
• marriage counseling

Medical Definition

counseling

noun

coun·​sel·​ing

: professional guidance of the individual by utilizing psychological methods especially in collecting case history data, using various techniques of the personal interview, and testing interests and aptitudes