Guidance Counsellor

Skills and abilities: Able to build trust and gain confidence. Empathic, non-judgemental, able to see how own opinions can impact others. Excellent listening skills, and appreciation of confidentiality.

What you’ll be doing: You could decide to work with groups or individuals, and in various specialisations, such as career counselling, school or college counselling, and marriage counselling. Typical day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Building a trusting, respectful rapport with the client
• Agreeing a confidential contract, agreeing topics to be covered
• Encouraging open discussion of issues, and listening to concerns
• Understanding concerns, empathising, yet challenging when necessary
• Helping clients towards a deeper understanding, and to make decisions going forward
• Liaising as necessary with other departments or sources of help
• Working to agreed targets as per contracts, and keeping appropriate records

Career progression: Many counsellors maintain a similar professional level, however management opportunities exist with a more strategic role. You may decide to work as a school or college counsellor, or specialise in an area such as couple’s counselling. With experience, and professional contacts, you may choose to work as a self-employed practitioner.