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

Programming includes individual and family mental wellness counseling, lifestyle empowerment consultations, and adolescent nutritional consultations. — Jen Murphy, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026

An Amazon spokesperson said that all shifts were canceled and employees were sent home with pay after the shooting, and on-site grief counseling will be available when the building reopens. — Lauren Victory, CBS News, 29 June 2026

Guillermo Diaz-Torres, 34, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, was ordered to pay $2,850 in fines and court fees, complete alcohol counseling and attend a victim-impact panel as part of the misdemeanor plea deal. — Christy Gutowski, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026

Although most organizations still offer benefits surrounding overall mental health rather than financial wellness specifically, one-third (33%) already provide financial counseling, and 17% help employees cope with credit issues. — Dr. Erika Rasure, Forbes.com, 26 June 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