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

Their family received around-the-clock caregiving support, free counseling and the space to hold a celebration of life after Lars died. — Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 20 July 2026

Numerous programs are being implemented to attempt to reduce the probability of recidivism through education and counseling and to reintegrate offenders into society. — Ronald J. Allen, Chicago Tribune, 19 July 2026

And many nonprofits do help with other re-entry services like getting identification documents or employment counseling. — Amber Gaudet july 18, Charlotte Observer, 18 July 2026

Improving access to effective medication and lifestyle counseling are other solutions. — Torie Bosch, STAT, 18 July 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