counseling

1 of 2

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

counseling

2 of 2

present participle of counsel entry 2

Examples of counseling in a Sentence

Noun

She is receiving counseling to cope with the death of her husband.

The college offers career counseling.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Through that program, the systems have provided students with culturally responsive services, including mental health counseling and mentorship opportunities. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 30 Sep. 2026

Residents will have access to supportive services like budget counseling, employment coaching, health and wellness programs and more. — Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 28 Sep. 2026

The university said its counseling center is available to impacted students. — Tara Lynch, CBS News, 28 Sep. 2026

Psychotherapy, counseling, occupational therapy, mindfulness therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can help improve functioning ad quality of life for people who have schizophrenia. — Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 26 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

see counsel entry 1

First Known Use

Noun

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