Career Counseling Therapists in Los Olivos, CA
![Photo of Terry Binkovitz Phd., PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b7331ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I have been trained in a unique approach called Process Work, developed by Dr. Arnold Mindell. Process work is a dynamic and transformative approach which uses Jungian psychology, Taoism and physics. It offers new ways of working with problematic or painful experiences. Relationship challenges, physical symptoms, career conflicts and social tensions are approached with curiosity, respect and creativity. In using process work, I believe that the solution to a problem is contained within the disturbance itself; and I provide practical ways through which individuals, couples and groups can connect with a greater awareness.
I have been trained in a unique approach called Process Work, developed by Dr. Arnold Mindell. Process work is a dynamic and transformative approach which uses Jungian psychology, Taoism and physics. It offers new ways of working with problematic or painful experiences. Relationship challenges, physical symptoms, career conflicts and social tensions are approached with curiosity, respect and creativity. In using process work, I believe that the solution to a problem is contained within the disturbance itself; and I provide practical ways through which individuals, couples and groups can connect with a greater awareness.
![Photo of Kady Fleckenstein, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e3e33d7-c6d0-4ef2-865f-982758b40cbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kady Fleckenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Olivos, CA 93441
Many clients come to me with reoccurring challenges due to chronic pain or illness, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting struggles, career hurdles, and more.
Now accepting CA adults, couples, and families for in-person and telehealth sessions! Have you tried therapy before and felt you kept walking away without tangible tools for change? Are you new to therapy and unsure where to start? Whether your problems feel small or insurmountable, therapy is an excellent way to learn new ways to face any obstacle. Sometimes we're not sure what exactly is wrong but that we just want things to change. In my practice, I provide an honest, compassionate approach that empowers you to become your best self. If you are looking for change and growth, you're in the right place!
Many clients come to me with reoccurring challenges due to chronic pain or illness, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting struggles, career hurdles, and more.
Now accepting CA adults, couples, and families for in-person and telehealth sessions! Have you tried therapy before and felt you kept walking away without tangible tools for change? Are you new to therapy and unsure where to start? Whether your problems feel small or insurmountable, therapy is an excellent way to learn new ways to face any obstacle. Sometimes we're not sure what exactly is wrong but that we just want things to change. In my practice, I provide an honest, compassionate approach that empowers you to become your best self. If you are looking for change and growth, you're in the right place!
![Photo of Susan Marie Lauwers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0de8a55-8a70-45ce-9e09-7d49d820bf94/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you ready to feel better? Drawing upon my extensive training, and vast life experience, I will help you recognize your innate ability to access wisdom and healing. I bring a relaxed, loving, and compassionate spirit to my work while helping you find graceful solutions. When I meet with you, I look towards your health and what is working for you.
Do you feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you ready to feel better? Drawing upon my extensive training, and vast life experience, I will help you recognize your innate ability to access wisdom and healing. I bring a relaxed, loving, and compassionate spirit to my work while helping you find graceful solutions. When I meet with you, I look towards your health and what is working for you.
![Photo of Michelle Trudeau LeBeau, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d4316c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Trudeau LeBeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Olivos, CA 93441
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the right therapist is important. I approach therapy in a warm and relational way, and believe confidentiality and non-judgmental responses are crucial to creating a safe and trusting space. I know it can be hard to open up and start the process, so I make sure my client's feel comfortable to talk about the hard things and share about themselves authentically. Many of the situations I help people with involve experiencing depression or anxiety, processing recent or past trauma, important life or identity transitions, adolescent struggles, relationship concerns, and wanting personal growth and healing.
Finding the right therapist is important. I approach therapy in a warm and relational way, and believe confidentiality and non-judgmental responses are crucial to creating a safe and trusting space. I know it can be hard to open up and start the process, so I make sure my client's feel comfortable to talk about the hard things and share about themselves authentically. Many of the situations I help people with involve experiencing depression or anxiety, processing recent or past trauma, important life or identity transitions, adolescent struggles, relationship concerns, and wanting personal growth and healing.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Anthony Garcia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6bcdb23-d218-4fea-bad5-d86626053738/2/320x400.jpeg)
Navigating mental health can be a daunting journey for many individuals. A significant hurdle encountered when seeking support is the stigma associated with mental health. Personally, I understand the feelings of fear that can hold you back from seeking help. The hopelessness, one can experience is relatable, yet I also recognize the transformative power that seeking therapy can bring. While delving into the complexities of the past may be painful, I provide a safe space where healing can commence. Let's collectively break the stigma surrounding mental health by igniting a spark of hope today. Let's spread hope like fire!
Navigating mental health can be a daunting journey for many individuals. A significant hurdle encountered when seeking support is the stigma associated with mental health. Personally, I understand the feelings of fear that can hold you back from seeking help. The hopelessness, one can experience is relatable, yet I also recognize the transformative power that seeking therapy can bring. While delving into the complexities of the past may be painful, I provide a safe space where healing can commence. Let's collectively break the stigma surrounding mental health by igniting a spark of hope today. Let's spread hope like fire!
![Photo of Joyce Kougl, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52404df5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that therapy can be a great environment to help you grow as an individual, to mend broken relationships, and to let go of the past that may be holding you back. I believe in creating a strong support system in order to help with the healing process and move forward with your life. In working with children, families and individuals I utilize an eclectic approach with an emphasis in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as I believe thinking, questioning and doing leads to changes needed for growth and recovery.
I believe that therapy can be a great environment to help you grow as an individual, to mend broken relationships, and to let go of the past that may be holding you back. I believe in creating a strong support system in order to help with the healing process and move forward with your life. In working with children, families and individuals I utilize an eclectic approach with an emphasis in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as I believe thinking, questioning and doing leads to changes needed for growth and recovery.
![Photo of Andrea Mcgee - Dre McGee Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1a2905-5812-49cd-8d1f-26a291d4212c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dre McGee Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Ynez, CA 93460
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
![Photo of Riven Barton, PhD, CTS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b8fef68-d234-43fc-a633-12b95599fe87/4/320x400.jpeg)
The body remembers what the mind would like to forget. We are hardwired to record trauma and adverse experiences in our nervous systems. This wiring is absolutely essential for our survival, but it can be interrupted if for some reason those natural responses of fight, flight, fawn, or freeze are not allowed to be fully completed. Essentially, our bodies don't know that we are safe even if our minds perceive otherwise. This can manifest as chronic illness, anxiety, depression. O.C.D. relational issues and a variety of other physical and psychological disorders.
The body remembers what the mind would like to forget. We are hardwired to record trauma and adverse experiences in our nervous systems. This wiring is absolutely essential for our survival, but it can be interrupted if for some reason those natural responses of fight, flight, fawn, or freeze are not allowed to be fully completed. Essentially, our bodies don't know that we are safe even if our minds perceive otherwise. This can manifest as chronic illness, anxiety, depression. O.C.D. relational issues and a variety of other physical and psychological disorders.
![Photo of Amy Marie Hamilton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3aad69-b973-422d-90e5-f6b9f6f27674/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Marie Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Solvang, CA 93463
I'm Amy Hamilton, a licensed therapist dedicated to helping children, teens, and families through a variety of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether it's anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or more complex matters like family dynamics, attachment difficulties, or the effects of bullying, I'm here to provide support. I'm passionate about guiding young people toward a happier, healthier future and would love to help you navigate any obstacles you may be facing.
I'm Amy Hamilton, a licensed therapist dedicated to helping children, teens, and families through a variety of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether it's anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or more complex matters like family dynamics, attachment difficulties, or the effects of bullying, I'm here to provide support. I'm passionate about guiding young people toward a happier, healthier future and would love to help you navigate any obstacles you may be facing.
![Photo of Jennifer Sidhwa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/266d61c1-9824-40ef-93c0-bfc6fe02d564/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sidhwa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ynez, CA 93460
Not accepting new clients
I believe that my role as a therapist is to provide effective tools in a safe and supportive environment to help each individual activate their own intuitive healing process. I utilize a variety of evidenced-based approaches in order to support and honor the mind, body and spirit of each individual I work with. As a woman of color who has worked extensively with individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups, I pay careful attention to providing culturally responsive care.
I believe that my role as a therapist is to provide effective tools in a safe and supportive environment to help each individual activate their own intuitive healing process. I utilize a variety of evidenced-based approaches in order to support and honor the mind, body and spirit of each individual I work with. As a woman of color who has worked extensively with individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups, I pay careful attention to providing culturally responsive care.
![Photo of Clinton Doyle Hollister, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dcd4e83-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clinton Doyle Hollister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ynez, CA 93460 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Whenever people come to see me, I am always impressed by their courage. No matter what the problems are, most everyone enters therapy from a confused and vulnerable space. To do so takes courage. In knowing this, I work to honor their vulnerability and courage. I know that by providing a grounded, attentive, and focused presence to those I work with, trust will occur between us, and we can all be more free to address whatever the pain may be. Without this foundation of trust, I will not be able to effectively help at all.
Whenever people come to see me, I am always impressed by their courage. No matter what the problems are, most everyone enters therapy from a confused and vulnerable space. To do so takes courage. In knowing this, I work to honor their vulnerability and courage. I know that by providing a grounded, attentive, and focused presence to those I work with, trust will occur between us, and we can all be more free to address whatever the pain may be. Without this foundation of trust, I will not be able to effectively help at all.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Mahip Rathore, PhD, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f76d4ad3-9be2-486d-a618-86a5fe73b822/1/320x400.jpeg)
I love to work with individuals who are driven by an innate need to self-actualize, and who are motivated to find meaning and happiness in life. Folks who have been through a lot, and therefore look at the world from a spiritual lens. Individuals who are interested in exploring relationships, career, spirituality, the purpose of life, and want to cultivate a practice (like meditation). They might be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or personality related concerns in some or most of these aspects, and are hoping to receive clarity, care, and understanding in a safe therapeutic space.
I love to work with individuals who are driven by an innate need to self-actualize, and who are motivated to find meaning and happiness in life. Folks who have been through a lot, and therefore look at the world from a spiritual lens. Individuals who are interested in exploring relationships, career, spirituality, the purpose of life, and want to cultivate a practice (like meditation). They might be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or personality related concerns in some or most of these aspects, and are hoping to receive clarity, care, and understanding in a safe therapeutic space.
![Photo of Lynn Ingber - Affordable Therapy Los Angeles, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfeab35-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Affordable Therapy Los Angeles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 (Online Only)
Our therapists can help with a variety of issues, including: Anxiety; Bereavement; Past Child Abuse; Depression; Emotional Abuse; Gay and Lesbian Issues; Job Displacement; Loneliness; Marriage Problems; Parent/Child Difficulties; Recovery from Substance Abuse; Relationship Difficulties, Stress, and Trauma.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
Our therapists can help with a variety of issues, including: Anxiety; Bereavement; Past Child Abuse; Depression; Emotional Abuse; Gay and Lesbian Issues; Job Displacement; Loneliness; Marriage Problems; Parent/Child Difficulties; Recovery from Substance Abuse; Relationship Difficulties, Stress, and Trauma.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
![Photo of Elizabeth Wolfson, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a75452e-3942-4ff3-a6c1-9a73c6be0b68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Over years in private practice I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for a range of issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal, career, and life transitions.
When choosing a therapist, experience matters. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I know there is no set formula for you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your unique circumstance and goals including emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective. There is no substitute for working with a professional who is fully attentive and present to what you are bringing to the experience, whom you can trust in helping you meet your goals and enhance your life quality.
Over years in private practice I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for a range of issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal, career, and life transitions.
When choosing a therapist, experience matters. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I know there is no set formula for you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your unique circumstance and goals including emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective. There is no substitute for working with a professional who is fully attentive and present to what you are bringing to the experience, whom you can trust in helping you meet your goals and enhance your life quality.
![Photo of Jay Lytton, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7e81d1d-b5a6-47b0-a3a0-e55d9e69f17b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jay Lytton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, including managing complex emotions and past traumas. However, working with a trusted therapist can provide opportunities for personal growth and healing. As a psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe it is important that you have a safe space to feel heard, supported, and empowered. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a joint Masters in Social Work and Business Administration. I have experience treating a wide range of issues and I primarily work with adult men experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life transitions, and career or workplace issues.
Life can be challenging, including managing complex emotions and past traumas. However, working with a trusted therapist can provide opportunities for personal growth and healing. As a psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe it is important that you have a safe space to feel heard, supported, and empowered. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a joint Masters in Social Work and Business Administration. I have experience treating a wide range of issues and I primarily work with adult men experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life transitions, and career or workplace issues.
![Photo of Dr. Alyx Rivera-MacTernan, EdD, LPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9572c768-0148-4621-8ffa-3a456545befa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Alyx Rivera-MacTernan
Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Oxnard, CA 93035 (Online Only)
Hello. I am Dr. Alyx Rivera-MacTernan, the founder of Elemental Mental Health and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of California, Florida, Georgia and Texas. I have spent my career working to improve the mental health of patients and mental health services for members of my community. My passion is helping members of my community combat mental health issues and advocating for better mental health protections and care, especially for those who can not advocate for themselves.
Hello. I am Dr. Alyx Rivera-MacTernan, the founder of Elemental Mental Health and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of California, Florida, Georgia and Texas. I have spent my career working to improve the mental health of patients and mental health services for members of my community. My passion is helping members of my community combat mental health issues and advocating for better mental health protections and care, especially for those who can not advocate for themselves.
![Photo of Alison Goldberg, MS, LPCC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2e0b7e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work closely with the Department of Rehabilitation to assist clients with obtaining various types of resources for vocational training, job placement, and education.
My greatest reward as a therapist is helping clients explore ways to make changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide clients with a safe place to explore how to create the life they want. I hold a Master's in Counseling and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I use a variety of approaches, depending on individual needs. I specialize in addictions, mood disorders, and career development issues.
I work closely with the Department of Rehabilitation to assist clients with obtaining various types of resources for vocational training, job placement, and education.
My greatest reward as a therapist is helping clients explore ways to make changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide clients with a safe place to explore how to create the life they want. I hold a Master's in Counseling and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I use a variety of approaches, depending on individual needs. I specialize in addictions, mood disorders, and career development issues.
![Photo of Melissa D. Volchok, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b941b30-70f9-4855-b24a-bf1d846e672d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Helping clients realize their desired life changes is one of the most gratifying parts of my job as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Empowering people to live their best lives is my goal, whether my clients (an individual, a couple, or a family) are wanting to heal from pain, gain hope, or achieve something they perceive as out of reach. I approach everyone with compassion and understanding, without judgement. I am honored to be the person who gets to take this journey with others, and I look forward to taking it with you.
Helping clients realize their desired life changes is one of the most gratifying parts of my job as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Empowering people to live their best lives is my goal, whether my clients (an individual, a couple, or a family) are wanting to heal from pain, gain hope, or achieve something they perceive as out of reach. I approach everyone with compassion and understanding, without judgement. I am honored to be the person who gets to take this journey with others, and I look forward to taking it with you.
![Photo of Kathryn Star Gutierrrez, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8503a159-5acf-45ef-8210-f599e6655df0/3/320x400.jpeg)
I weave a mosaic of individual group therapy, sheppard patients toward effective communication & coping skills, illuminate a path of career choices, aid in the delicate realm of pain management.
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Star Gutierrez, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, educator, and artist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I treat adults who are struggling with women issues, anxiety and depression as well as those who had a physical injury followed by a sequela of chronic pain.
I weave a mosaic of individual group therapy, sheppard patients toward effective communication & coping skills, illuminate a path of career choices, aid in the delicate realm of pain management.
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Star Gutierrez, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, educator, and artist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I treat adults who are struggling with women issues, anxiety and depression as well as those who had a physical injury followed by a sequela of chronic pain.
![Photo of Vanessa Campos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fe027d6-783f-44cd-b1f1-0ee19c033316/1/320x400.png)
My name is Vanessa Campos, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about supporting all clients through challenges, leading them to experience healing and growth. I earned my master’s degree in psychology from National University with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s difficulties. Drawing from a diverse array of educational, career, and life experience, I use a blend of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, self-compassion, and mindfulness approaches.
My name is Vanessa Campos, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about supporting all clients through challenges, leading them to experience healing and growth. I earned my master’s degree in psychology from National University with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s difficulties. Drawing from a diverse array of educational, career, and life experience, I use a blend of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, self-compassion, and mindfulness approaches.
See more therapy options for Los Olivos
Nearby Career Counseling Therapists Searches for Los Olivos
- Arroyo Grande
- Carpinteria
- Goleta
- Lompoc
- Montecito
- Orcutt
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Barbara
- Santa Maria
- Santa Ynez
- Solvang
Nearby Searches for Los Olivos
- Buellton
- Goleta
- Isla Vista
- Lompoc
- Montecito
- Nipomo
- Orcutt
- Santa Barbara
- Santa Maria
- Santa Ynez
- Solvang
- Summerland
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.