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

The new parenting plan included a psychiatric evaluation for Travis Decker, mandatory mental health counseling, and a domestic violence evaluation, according to court documents. —Alaa Elassar, CNN Money, 8 June 2025

Mental health counseling and support groups can offer valuable emotional and mental support. —Brandi Jones, Health, 6 June 2025

The agreement was contingent on Travis Decker’s seeking mental health treatment and domestic violence anger-management counseling, according to the affidavit. —Matt Lavietes, NBC news, 5 June 2025

Most colleges provide a variety of support services aimed at helping students succeed, such as tutoring and writing centers, mental health counseling, financial aid advising, and faculty office hours. —Maja Zelihic, Forbes.com, 5 June 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