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

The message also urged students in need of support to reach out to counseling and support services. —Jack Perry, The Providence Journal, 20 Feb. 2026

The nonprofit provides a variety of services for veterans, including assistance with food, peer counseling, housing and employment. —Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026

During the Wednesday briefing, Tarr also highlighted resources being provided to support the families of the victims, including counseling and financial assistance. —Aaron Parseghian, CBS News, 19 Feb. 2026

Colin Gray was also aware his son’s mental health had deteriorated and had sought help from a counseling service weeks before the shooting, an investigator testified. —Jeff Martin, Los Angeles Times, 17 Feb. 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