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

Working with groups like Habitat for Humanity and increasing grant access to rental vouchers, down payment assistance, and financial counseling will build housing stability and help everyone to live with dignity. —Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2025

Berlin said the officers involved have no prior discipline and received mental health counseling after the incident. —Christina Hall, Freep.com, 23 Oct. 2025

Mara and her 12-year-old child started counseling. —Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025

Somehow, through therapy and counseling, sheer grit and stubbornness, Giuffre found a way to build a life. —Laura Trujillo, USA Today, 22 Oct. 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