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

Yet the same law explicitly permitted counseling that affirmed a gender transition. —Jeffrey S. Trimbath, Baltimore Sun, 20 Apr. 2026

When a refund isn't enough For people who are overwhelmed by debt or falling behind despite a refund, nonprofit credit counseling agencies can help. —Joshua Sidorowicz, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026

Baystate offered counseling for gender non-conforming youth, and the endocrinology department had experience in prescribing hormone therapy. —Karen Brown, NPR, 17 Apr. 2026

For example, an employee feeling overwhelmed might engage with a wellness coach to build better routines and manage stress early, preventing the need for formal EAP counseling later. —Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 16 Apr. 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