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

Bethany said her boss encouraged her to seek immediate counseling. —Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 May 2026

The event, held at Alexander Park's Lois Lane Pavilion, featured more than 35 community partners offering information on counseling, insurance assistance, housing support for veterans, medical care and mental health treatment options. —Cbs Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 10 May 2026

Both Jackson and Conney highlighted the various mental health resources that the U offers to students and faculty, such as their student crisis support line at 612-301-4673, urgent same-day counseling at Boynton Health’s East Bank Clinic, or the Care Team for those concerned about someone else. —Maddie Mullikin, Twin Cities, 9 May 2026

The Greenwich Township School District will also be making counseling available to students upon their return on Monday. —Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 9 May 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