Career Counseling Therapists in 97239
![Photo of Elizabeth Gentzkow - Thrive West Consulting, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/024c05c1-e799-427e-b00a-ccc0c424af4e/1/320x400.png)
Thrive West Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
I offer evidence-based therapy, career, and executive coaching to professionals, leaders, and executives who desire greater meaning and success in their lives.
You never feel satisfied with your accomplishments and push yourself to do more. But does it feel sustainable? Frequent headaches, burnout, tightness in the chest, avoiding difficult conversations, feeling disconnected from your loved ones, career uncertainty or plateaus, difficulty managing others at work, and struggling to feel rested are issues you can overcome in our work together. It's tough to balance it all. I help people like you achieve more with less anxiety, stress, and pressure. I specialize in anxiety, career coaching, leadership development, communication, and workplace issues.
I offer evidence-based therapy, career, and executive coaching to professionals, leaders, and executives who desire greater meaning and success in their lives.
You never feel satisfied with your accomplishments and push yourself to do more. But does it feel sustainable? Frequent headaches, burnout, tightness in the chest, avoiding difficult conversations, feeling disconnected from your loved ones, career uncertainty or plateaus, difficulty managing others at work, and struggling to feel rested are issues you can overcome in our work together. It's tough to balance it all. I help people like you achieve more with less anxiety, stress, and pressure. I specialize in anxiety, career coaching, leadership development, communication, and workplace issues.
![Photo of June Bremmer, MS, MBTI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d98c4dc0-8895-4d33-9327-ba42404509fc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize leading assessments to determine best-fit career paths while helping you build connections with professional networks and resources.
I work with individuals and groups to discover and apply their unique strengths and values, with a well-defined career exploration plan. My approach is holistic, balancing the support you need with the action steps to move forward. In our work together here's what you can expect: Maximize strengths and skills for higher career and life satisfaction and increase confidence in implementing objectives that advance your career. We also work on reducing stress and gaining clarity on attaining your goals while using key marketing tools like resume, LinkedIn and cover letters to gain confidence with interviews and negotiations.
I utilize leading assessments to determine best-fit career paths while helping you build connections with professional networks and resources.
I work with individuals and groups to discover and apply their unique strengths and values, with a well-defined career exploration plan. My approach is holistic, balancing the support you need with the action steps to move forward. In our work together here's what you can expect: Maximize strengths and skills for higher career and life satisfaction and increase confidence in implementing objectives that advance your career. We also work on reducing stress and gaining clarity on attaining your goals while using key marketing tools like resume, LinkedIn and cover letters to gain confidence with interviews and negotiations.
![Photo of Kel Lash, MS, LPC, CLC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5246ae1d-03c1-467a-8170-a4aef2aa63cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in spiritual coaching, ACIM coaching/mentorship, somatic work (using the body to heal), self-hypnosis, LGBTQ-affirming care, highly sensitive empaths, neurodiversity, TRE, business/career coaching, and inner child healing.
I'm Kel! I offer virtual (phone) therapy, spiritual coaching and self-hypnosis for clients located anywhere. I've dedicated my life helping incredible people enrich their lives and relationships. I help clients love and forgive themselves using the miraculous power to heal from within. I use intuition, somatic therapy, mindfulness, radical acceptance and humor. I specialize in spiritual issues and coaching, self-love, self-forgiveness, self-acceptance & inner child healing. Clients report how easy it is to love themselves after working with me. Clients describe me as gentle, calm, compassionate, out of the box and inspiring.
I specialize in spiritual coaching, ACIM coaching/mentorship, somatic work (using the body to heal), self-hypnosis, LGBTQ-affirming care, highly sensitive empaths, neurodiversity, TRE, business/career coaching, and inner child healing.
I'm Kel! I offer virtual (phone) therapy, spiritual coaching and self-hypnosis for clients located anywhere. I've dedicated my life helping incredible people enrich their lives and relationships. I help clients love and forgive themselves using the miraculous power to heal from within. I use intuition, somatic therapy, mindfulness, radical acceptance and humor. I specialize in spiritual issues and coaching, self-love, self-forgiveness, self-acceptance & inner child healing. Clients report how easy it is to love themselves after working with me. Clients describe me as gentle, calm, compassionate, out of the box and inspiring.
![Photo of Hanna Jordan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b94522-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hanna Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in helping clients address obstacles to well-being and fulfillment: anxiety, stress; life, work, and career transitions; depression; relationship issues; intimacy; self defeating behaviors; trauma; PTSD; body image; eating disorders; grief and loss; ADD; ADHD; chronic fatigue; addictions.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
I have experience in helping clients address obstacles to well-being and fulfillment: anxiety, stress; life, work, and career transitions; depression; relationship issues; intimacy; self defeating behaviors; trauma; PTSD; body image; eating disorders; grief and loss; ADD; ADHD; chronic fatigue; addictions.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
![Photo of Thomas Joseph Doherty, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/479f9550-0a75-4b42-8e1d-fca595d041fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist who provides teletherapy and outdoor walking sessions. My office is in SW Portland. I have a specialty helping people overcome distress about climate change and environmental issues. ** CURRENTLY I ONLY HAVE OPENINGS FOR CLIENTS WITH THIS FOCUS. ** I have a direct, supportive style. I work with adult women, men and couples of diverse backgrounds and orientations. I have 25 years of experience. I also help people with personal growth; reducing anxiety or depression; dealing with losses; improving communication and relationships; and public speaking and job performance.
I am a licensed psychologist who provides teletherapy and outdoor walking sessions. My office is in SW Portland. I have a specialty helping people overcome distress about climate change and environmental issues. ** CURRENTLY I ONLY HAVE OPENINGS FOR CLIENTS WITH THIS FOCUS. ** I have a direct, supportive style. I work with adult women, men and couples of diverse backgrounds and orientations. I have 25 years of experience. I also help people with personal growth; reducing anxiety or depression; dealing with losses; improving communication and relationships; and public speaking and job performance.
![Photo of Bob Linhares, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c21d733-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
I treat adults experiencing a variety of life's challenges, including relationship problems, transition challenges, career worries, money-related difficulties, health concerns, anxiety, and depression. This work combines practical guidance, problem solving and education. My therapeutic style is collaborative. Together, we look for insight into the origins of unwanted behavioral, emotional, and relationship patterns, then use that new knowledge to develop strategies to help you get "unstuck" and move forward in your life.
I treat adults experiencing a variety of life's challenges, including relationship problems, transition challenges, career worries, money-related difficulties, health concerns, anxiety, and depression. This work combines practical guidance, problem solving and education. My therapeutic style is collaborative. Together, we look for insight into the origins of unwanted behavioral, emotional, and relationship patterns, then use that new knowledge to develop strategies to help you get "unstuck" and move forward in your life.
![Photo of Chantelle K Dockter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9039be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chantelle K Dockter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I have been counseling for over twenty years, and working with people is truly my passion. I work primarily with teens, adults, and couples, with an emphasis in working with first responders . I specialize in self-harm behaviors, eating disorders, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, and abuse issues. As a Christian counselor I integrate Biblical truths with psychological principles. I believe it is the job of the counselor to provide a safe, supportive, challenging, and collaborative environment for each client that enters the office. I work with many insurance companies as an out-of-network provider only.
I have been counseling for over twenty years, and working with people is truly my passion. I work primarily with teens, adults, and couples, with an emphasis in working with first responders . I specialize in self-harm behaviors, eating disorders, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, and abuse issues. As a Christian counselor I integrate Biblical truths with psychological principles. I believe it is the job of the counselor to provide a safe, supportive, challenging, and collaborative environment for each client that enters the office. I work with many insurance companies as an out-of-network provider only.
![Photo of Libby Schwartz, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fbdc573-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Libby Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with older adults and professionals who are coping with life transitions, grief and loss, relationships, career, or retirement.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up until it seems impossible to cope with them. These places can feel especially demoralizing if they challenge your self-efficacy--your ability to cope with problems on your own. You are not alone. At times, everyone needs help navigating through life's passages. I believe we all have the capacity to find a deeper, more meaningful life. I can work with you to help you regain your footing to continue your journey stronger than you were before.
I enjoy working with older adults and professionals who are coping with life transitions, grief and loss, relationships, career, or retirement.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up until it seems impossible to cope with them. These places can feel especially demoralizing if they challenge your self-efficacy--your ability to cope with problems on your own. You are not alone. At times, everyone needs help navigating through life's passages. I believe we all have the capacity to find a deeper, more meaningful life. I can work with you to help you regain your footing to continue your journey stronger than you were before.
![Photo of Cameron Donley, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eac3a9d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cameron Donley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work primarily with individuals in their late teens, 20s, and 30s (early adulthood/quarterlife) who are struggling to find their own unique path in life. I tend to be a good fit for those who: • Are feeling overwhelmed or dehumanized by modern life • Were raised in growth-limiting environments (judgmental family/religious systems, abusive/controlling parenting styles) • Were parentified as children • Are struggling with shame or anxiety • Have unresolved trauma • Are feeling confusion about what they want from their lives • Have more than one cultural identity • Are looking to feel more whole and live a more authentic existence
I work primarily with individuals in their late teens, 20s, and 30s (early adulthood/quarterlife) who are struggling to find their own unique path in life. I tend to be a good fit for those who: • Are feeling overwhelmed or dehumanized by modern life • Were raised in growth-limiting environments (judgmental family/religious systems, abusive/controlling parenting styles) • Were parentified as children • Are struggling with shame or anxiety • Have unresolved trauma • Are feeling confusion about what they want from their lives • Have more than one cultural identity • Are looking to feel more whole and live a more authentic existence
![Photo of Kathleen Peters, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6ad332-92cb-4d1e-9cc0-603ef9a9ee78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Often when we’re stuck, we feel as if we’ve run out of options; we don’t know how to move forward. Maybe you’re tired of living this way and you’re ready for things to be different. First of all, I want to commend you. Just by the fact you are here looking for a counselor, I want to acknowledge the amount of courage and energy that took. This says much about how ready you are for a change, and it makes me genuinely excited to work with you. Sometimes we’re too close to our own challenges to see what is getting in our way. This is where I can be helpful.
Often when we’re stuck, we feel as if we’ve run out of options; we don’t know how to move forward. Maybe you’re tired of living this way and you’re ready for things to be different. First of all, I want to commend you. Just by the fact you are here looking for a counselor, I want to acknowledge the amount of courage and energy that took. This says much about how ready you are for a change, and it makes me genuinely excited to work with you. Sometimes we’re too close to our own challenges to see what is getting in our way. This is where I can be helpful.
![Photo of Angel Ray, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a995487-ac0b-44f3-83a6-62d514528785/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all have moments of change in our lives that take us through ups and downs. Sometimes we can get stuck in understanding what is happening and knowing how to move forward. Living with challenging transitions is one of those moments when having someone to talk to, who truly understands from personal experience, makes the difference. I am a licensed counselor who through a social justice lens, will listen to all your frustrations with loved ones, friends, co-workers, and our misinformed society.
We all have moments of change in our lives that take us through ups and downs. Sometimes we can get stuck in understanding what is happening and knowing how to move forward. Living with challenging transitions is one of those moments when having someone to talk to, who truly understands from personal experience, makes the difference. I am a licensed counselor who through a social justice lens, will listen to all your frustrations with loved ones, friends, co-workers, and our misinformed society.
![Photo of George Lewis, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b189e301-6b0f-4816-894d-5a83de31679e/2/320x400.jpeg)
George Lewis
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Waitlist for new clients
People seek therapy for many reasons, but one thing just about everyone entering therapy has in common is a feeling that something needs to change for life to become more fulfilling. Whether you’re encountering difficulties in personal relationships, grief and loss, work-related stress, a life transition, low self-esteem, the emotional impacts of traumatic experiences, or struggling with constellations of symptoms commonly referred to as “depression” or “anxiety,” I honor your individuality and tailor my approach to meeting your unique needs.
People seek therapy for many reasons, but one thing just about everyone entering therapy has in common is a feeling that something needs to change for life to become more fulfilling. Whether you’re encountering difficulties in personal relationships, grief and loss, work-related stress, a life transition, low self-esteem, the emotional impacts of traumatic experiences, or struggling with constellations of symptoms commonly referred to as “depression” or “anxiety,” I honor your individuality and tailor my approach to meeting your unique needs.
![Photo of Niki Adams, MA, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86e14008-2edc-4b6c-b074-066c6857ff8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with young adults and adults from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, gender identities and backgrounds with a wide range of mental health concerns. Although I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds, I am particularly excited about working with emerging adults, LGBTQIA+, people who identify as being disabled, and neurodivergent folx. Many of my clients are in a state of adjustment and often just need someone to help them through new and emerging life obstacles.
I have experience working with young adults and adults from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, gender identities and backgrounds with a wide range of mental health concerns. Although I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds, I am particularly excited about working with emerging adults, LGBTQIA+, people who identify as being disabled, and neurodivergent folx. Many of my clients are in a state of adjustment and often just need someone to help them through new and emerging life obstacles.
![Photo of Dr. Shagun Pawar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57763f23-39f1-4790-8a8f-83e5326bf206/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults using the lens of complex trauma to help bring awareness into how one’s past may have shaped maladaptive behaviors of their present that could be causing life to be stressful and overwhelming. At the core of my work, I promote improving the relationship with oneself to maintain long-term healing. Patients who are motivated to improve their relationships, assertive communication and boundary setting skills, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves would be a good fit for the treatments I provide. I use CBT, attachment theory, inner-child work, some components of IFS, and EFT in my work.
I work with adults using the lens of complex trauma to help bring awareness into how one’s past may have shaped maladaptive behaviors of their present that could be causing life to be stressful and overwhelming. At the core of my work, I promote improving the relationship with oneself to maintain long-term healing. Patients who are motivated to improve their relationships, assertive communication and boundary setting skills, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves would be a good fit for the treatments I provide. I use CBT, attachment theory, inner-child work, some components of IFS, and EFT in my work.
![Photo of Dino Paris - Dino Paris Counseling & High Performance Coaching, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f53683a-b06b-4a9e-be15-1a3d51997b3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dino Paris Counseling & High Performance Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
For over 30years, Dino has helped clients find relief from anxiety and trauma. He employs the most effective evidence-based methods and technologies. His primary modalities include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Somatic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Creative Arts Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Poly Vagal Technology. As a high performance coach, Dino employs these same methods to assist elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to enhance their performance, enjoyment and engagement.
For over 30years, Dino has helped clients find relief from anxiety and trauma. He employs the most effective evidence-based methods and technologies. His primary modalities include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), Somatic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Creative Arts Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Poly Vagal Technology. As a high performance coach, Dino employs these same methods to assist elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to enhance their performance, enjoyment and engagement.
![Photo of Greg Arbo, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be3d508-9be8-4ea3-b5a6-811db94f8721/1/320x400.jpeg)
It's a pleasure to have the opportunity to support the wellbeing of teens and families, adult men, and couples. My specialties as a psychologist include anxiety, men's health, trauma, family of origin, Autism, ADHD, and self-esteem. My focus with teens is often on tackling academic, athletic, or relational stressors through understanding how to navigate thoughts and feelings. With couples, I enjoy the process of enhancing closeness through empathic, emotion-focused communication. I'm also passionate about supporting adult men in developing tools to manage stress and anxiety.
It's a pleasure to have the opportunity to support the wellbeing of teens and families, adult men, and couples. My specialties as a psychologist include anxiety, men's health, trauma, family of origin, Autism, ADHD, and self-esteem. My focus with teens is often on tackling academic, athletic, or relational stressors through understanding how to navigate thoughts and feelings. With couples, I enjoy the process of enhancing closeness through empathic, emotion-focused communication. I'm also passionate about supporting adult men in developing tools to manage stress and anxiety.
![Photo of Wendy Forrester, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db642ec1-bd84-452e-9697-e26d6b6e25a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Does life seem too challenging and uncertain? Awake at 3am unable to quiet your mind. Overwhelmed by anxiety? Immobilized by depression? Possibly you abandon your feelings to defer to others. You may be outwardly successful yet that doesn't ease your inner distress. A voice in your mind reminds you of perceived shortcomings leaving you feeling inadequate. Discouraged from trying to move forward but feel stuck? Whatever you're experiencing you don’t have to face it alone. You’re a woman seeking a deeper understanding of yourself—in relationships, beyond responsibilities & self-defeating patterns which create barriers to intimacy.
Does life seem too challenging and uncertain? Awake at 3am unable to quiet your mind. Overwhelmed by anxiety? Immobilized by depression? Possibly you abandon your feelings to defer to others. You may be outwardly successful yet that doesn't ease your inner distress. A voice in your mind reminds you of perceived shortcomings leaving you feeling inadequate. Discouraged from trying to move forward but feel stuck? Whatever you're experiencing you don’t have to face it alone. You’re a woman seeking a deeper understanding of yourself—in relationships, beyond responsibilities & self-defeating patterns which create barriers to intimacy.
![Photo of Cameron MacKinney, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea9ed66b-351c-4517-a219-c4c8789c47ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Accepting New Clients! We all face challenges and stressors in our lives; it’s part of being human! However, you don’t need to go through them alone. I’d be honored to help you along your personal journey of discovery and self-betterment. Let’s work together to achieve the life you deserve. I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You’re the expert on your life! I’m here to follow your lead and help build upon the inherent strengths and capabilities you already possess while providing guidance and insight along the way.
Currently Accepting New Clients! We all face challenges and stressors in our lives; it’s part of being human! However, you don’t need to go through them alone. I’d be honored to help you along your personal journey of discovery and self-betterment. Let’s work together to achieve the life you deserve. I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You’re the expert on your life! I’m here to follow your lead and help build upon the inherent strengths and capabilities you already possess while providing guidance and insight along the way.
![Photo of Elizabeth C Gentzkow, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b52619e-f57e-4b75-8591-5c646b3936af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth C Gentzkow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Regain control from anxiety, find peace from feeling overwhelmed, develop healthier relationships, and align your life with values for greater meaning. How we experience our emotions, feelings, and thoughts has a profound impact on how we approach life. I will show you a way to break free from anxiety's control so you're better able to take steps toward the life you want.
Regain control from anxiety, find peace from feeling overwhelmed, develop healthier relationships, and align your life with values for greater meaning. How we experience our emotions, feelings, and thoughts has a profound impact on how we approach life. I will show you a way to break free from anxiety's control so you're better able to take steps toward the life you want.
![Photo of Rachel Kendall, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40948c1b-fb93-4043-85c3-7578977a71f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Kendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Too often we give our power away to letting a thought, a circumstance or interaction rob us of our peace. Have you even felt that your life is just "the way things are?" Although it is true we cannot always control external forces, we are capable of controlling how we respond to them which is a simple concept to grasp but takes intentionality to implement. The good news is the best version of yourself is already within you and as you learn to observe your experience without judgement, you will have the ability to offer greater acceptance and compassion for yourself and to others to create a ripple effect of positive change.
Too often we give our power away to letting a thought, a circumstance or interaction rob us of our peace. Have you even felt that your life is just "the way things are?" Although it is true we cannot always control external forces, we are capable of controlling how we respond to them which is a simple concept to grasp but takes intentionality to implement. The good news is the best version of yourself is already within you and as you learn to observe your experience without judgement, you will have the ability to offer greater acceptance and compassion for yourself and to others to create a ripple effect of positive change.
See more therapy options for 97239
Career Counseling Therapists
How do I know if I need career counseling?
Determining whether a career counselor is needed involves assessing one's current career and identifying what changes can be made to improve one's overall quality of life. In particular, feelings of loss of motivation, fatigue, anxiety, depression, procrastination, or ongoing levels of high stress can all be indicative of a need for career-related counseling. In addition, individuals changing jobs may want the decision-making support or self-reflection opportunities provided by a career counselor.
Who can benefit from career counseling?
Anyone can benefit from the self-reflection, skill development, and stress management techniques that career counseling can provide. However, individuals who are feeling overwhelmed or burnt out with their current job and individuals considering a major career change may particularly benefit from career counseling to improve their wellbeing. Additionally, individuals who are facing issues in their current job, such as coworker relationship challenges or not meeting performance goals, may benefit from the perspective that a career counselor can provide. College-age or young professionals may also uniquely benefit from career counseling as they make key decisions surrounding education and job training that will impact their career trajectory.
How long does career counseling typically last?
The length of career counseling can vary greatly depending on the needs of the individual and what type of support they are seeking. Career coaching or advising services—which serve clients in a specific, goal-oriented capacity—often last for a shorter duration and are sometimes only a single session or a few sessions in length. In contrast, career counseling as part of a more integrative therapeutic relationship with a counselor may last longer, particularly if the issues faced by the client are longstanding and/or more complex in nature; in such cases, individuals may expect therapy to last multiple months or longer.
How to prepare for career counseling?
Clients can prepare for career counseling sessions by outlining the specific topics they would like to address with the counselor, such as current job challenges or hopes for the future of their career. Compiling one's thoughts on such topics often requires reflection on one's career and future goals, which in itself can be beneficial for session preparation. Clients may also want to put together a list of questions they would like to ask the counselor, particularly if the career counselor they are seeing has particular expertise in a given career area. Conducting research into potential future jobs, training opportunities, or support resources in one's area may also help clients prepare for career counseling by providing them with a background of what resources are available in their area.