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

While studying art history in college, Goldberg also earned a Bachelor of Arts in education and a Masters in guidance and school counseling at Brooklyn College. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 26 July 2026

Following Bodhi’s death, a GoFundMe was created to help cover funeral expenses for Bodhi and provide counseling to the family grieving his loss. — Ingrid Vasquez, PEOPLE, 25 July 2026

The bans on conversion therapy do not, however, restrict counseling for a person undergoing gender transition. — Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026

Authorities said Colin Gray knew his son was struggling with his mental health and sought counseling services for him prior to the shooting. — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 24 July 2026

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