Career Counseling Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Megan Rees, LPCC
Megan Rees
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
Sunday Scaries got you down? Experiencing gaslighting, bullying, or microaggressions at work? Feel like you’re failing or don’t belong? Feel it in your body? (Aches, pains, changes in eating or sleeping?) Changes in mood or outlook? (Feeling helpless, overwhelmed, numb, moody, anxious, or irritable?) Difficulty focusing or remembering? Too tired and beat down to look for a new job? Maybe you’re using food, alcohol, drugs, or shopping to feel better. You could be distancing yourself from the people in your life or having trouble getting along with them. Maybe you’re sick of hearing yourself tell them how much you hate your job.
Sunday Scaries got you down? Experiencing gaslighting, bullying, or microaggressions at work? Feel like you’re failing or don’t belong? Feel it in your body? (Aches, pains, changes in eating or sleeping?) Changes in mood or outlook? (Feeling helpless, overwhelmed, numb, moody, anxious, or irritable?) Difficulty focusing or remembering? Too tired and beat down to look for a new job? Maybe you’re using food, alcohol, drugs, or shopping to feel better. You could be distancing yourself from the people in your life or having trouble getting along with them. Maybe you’re sick of hearing yourself tell them how much you hate your job.
(341) 999-2983 View (341) 999-2983
Photo of Teresa Cole, LPCC, MA, Counselor
Teresa Cole
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
(510) 588-5277 View (510) 588-5277
Photo of Shelley M Samuels, MS, LPCC
Shelley M Samuels
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
Therapy is neither magic nor science, but I believe that therapy has the potential to be magical and transformative. I offer a warm, supportive environment to help individuals explore deep trauma as well as ordinary issues that impact daily life and long-term goals. I strive to inspire creativity through nature, and incorporate creative arts into my practice. My specialties: LGBTQQ issues/identity, working through grief/loss, helping with political wounding, healing survivors of domestic violence/sexual assault, positive aging, body image, building long-term relationships, and life transitions. A veteran career counselor, I've over 7 years of experience providing career counseling and coaching.
(510) 974-7425 View (510) 974-7425
Photo of Maurice C Shaw, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maurice C Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I started my social work career in-group homes.
My goal is to empower individuals who call the Bay Area home to live their best lives by utilizing my education, skills, and experience to enhance evidenced based practices. My experience as a child welfare social worker has gifted me with the ability to support individuals who are struggling with the most challenging issues which could include attachment issues, behavioral challenges, family discord, couples issues related to parenting, substance abuse, anxiety, depression and anger management. Additionally, I have a passion for working with the underserved African American and L.G.B.T.Q. community.
I started my social work career in-group homes.
My goal is to empower individuals who call the Bay Area home to live their best lives by utilizing my education, skills, and experience to enhance evidenced based practices. My experience as a child welfare social worker has gifted me with the ability to support individuals who are struggling with the most challenging issues which could include attachment issues, behavioral challenges, family discord, couples issues related to parenting, substance abuse, anxiety, depression and anger management. Additionally, I have a passion for working with the underserved African American and L.G.B.T.Q. community.
(510) 945-3678 View (510) 945-3678
Photo of Ioanna Angelakis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ioanna Angelakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
My specialization includes Anxiety disorders, Trauma, Grief issues, Parenting/Child therapy, Career insight, and Women's Issues.
My name is pronounced E-O-Anna, and I have 15 years of experience in assisting unique individuals, like yourself, in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, to shine as you are meant to. I work from a Strength-Based Approach and believe in your potential, whether you are a child or an adult, with a collaborative, individualized and Brief strategy to help you to alleviate those symptoms with haste. I specialize in treating Anxiety and Trauma with EMDR, CBT and Somatic modalities to ensure progress, with a Brief/Solutions focused framework. Together we will see the progress you desire, and quickly.
My specialization includes Anxiety disorders, Trauma, Grief issues, Parenting/Child therapy, Career insight, and Women's Issues.
My name is pronounced E-O-Anna, and I have 15 years of experience in assisting unique individuals, like yourself, in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, to shine as you are meant to. I work from a Strength-Based Approach and believe in your potential, whether you are a child or an adult, with a collaborative, individualized and Brief strategy to help you to alleviate those symptoms with haste. I specialize in treating Anxiety and Trauma with EMDR, CBT and Somatic modalities to ensure progress, with a Brief/Solutions focused framework. Together we will see the progress you desire, and quickly.
(510) 761-7093 View (510) 761-7093
Photo of Susan Jewkes Allen, MSW, GCDF
Susan Jewkes Allen
MSW, GCDF
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Career transition can be a time of possibility new beginnings; it can be stressful, confusing. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed. My specialization in career and lifework transition is informed by a clinical background on how work impacts well being. Together we identify how to create a life that works; a life that is fulfilled and meaningful. Overcome internal barriers, develop new mindsets, creatively maximize professional/personal effectiveness, launch a successful job search strategy: Resumes, LinkedIn, Networking, Interviews, Assessment: Strong Interest Inventory, Transferable Skills, Myers Briggs Type Indicator MBTI, Enneagram.
Career transition can be a time of possibility new beginnings; it can be stressful, confusing. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed. My specialization in career and lifework transition is informed by a clinical background on how work impacts well being. Together we identify how to create a life that works; a life that is fulfilled and meaningful. Overcome internal barriers, develop new mindsets, creatively maximize professional/personal effectiveness, launch a successful job search strategy: Resumes, LinkedIn, Networking, Interviews, Assessment: Strong Interest Inventory, Transferable Skills, Myers Briggs Type Indicator MBTI, Enneagram.
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Photo of Patrice Perillo - Patrice Perillo, Career Transition Specialist, MSS, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrice Perillo, Career Transition Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you struggling with CAREER TRANSITION or JOB DISSATISFACTION? If you're feeling stuck, confused or overwhelmed about what you want to do next I can help. Together, we'll look at where you are now & where you want to be. I'll help you get clear about what direction to go and map out a PLAN to get you there. I'll help you get rid of the NEGATIVE THINKING, self-sabotage, and fear that keeps you stuck. You'll get CLARITY and FOCUS and develop the tools and strategies to achieve your goals.
Are you struggling with CAREER TRANSITION or JOB DISSATISFACTION? If you're feeling stuck, confused or overwhelmed about what you want to do next I can help. Together, we'll look at where you are now & where you want to be. I'll help you get clear about what direction to go and map out a PLAN to get you there. I'll help you get rid of the NEGATIVE THINKING, self-sabotage, and fear that keeps you stuck. You'll get CLARITY and FOCUS and develop the tools and strategies to achieve your goals.
(267) 609-8820 View (267) 609-8820
Photo of Lauren Bloom, MA, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Bloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Specialties include job or career concerns, dating and relationship challenges, parenting and blended families, dealing with stress, health, and caregiving, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
My approach is friendly and collaborative; working with you to explore reactions, emotional patterns, and thought processes. I encourage honest exchange at your own pace while providing tangible techniques to take into your life. I incorporate mindfulness practices from my training as a yoga teacher. My professional background includes two decades of experience in the conflict resolution field with a focus on assisting individuals and teams who have workplace and academic concerns. I work with people from a variety of backgrounds including executives, university faculty, medical professionals, engineers, and people who work in tech and startups.
Specialties include job or career concerns, dating and relationship challenges, parenting and blended families, dealing with stress, health, and caregiving, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
My approach is friendly and collaborative; working with you to explore reactions, emotional patterns, and thought processes. I encourage honest exchange at your own pace while providing tangible techniques to take into your life. I incorporate mindfulness practices from my training as a yoga teacher. My professional background includes two decades of experience in the conflict resolution field with a focus on assisting individuals and teams who have workplace and academic concerns. I work with people from a variety of backgrounds including executives, university faculty, medical professionals, engineers, and people who work in tech and startups.
(510) 662-0322 View (510) 662-0322
Photo of Karen Rose, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Finding or creating a career that you're passionate about may seem like a fantasy... But, no matter what challenges you face – be they emotional or logistical – the unique counseling and coaching services I provide at Career Therapy can help make sure you do NOT have to settle for second best! My name is Karen Rose, and I've created Career Therapy to bring together my three decades of experience as a career counselor, career coach, and psychotherapist to help you articulate your goals, overcome work-life challenges, improve your relationships and resilience, and make sure you turn your career goals into reality.
Finding or creating a career that you're passionate about may seem like a fantasy... But, no matter what challenges you face – be they emotional or logistical – the unique counseling and coaching services I provide at Career Therapy can help make sure you do NOT have to settle for second best! My name is Karen Rose, and I've created Career Therapy to bring together my three decades of experience as a career counselor, career coach, and psychotherapist to help you articulate your goals, overcome work-life challenges, improve your relationships and resilience, and make sure you turn your career goals into reality.
(510) 674-1811 View (510) 674-1811
Photo of Cate Corcoran, PsyD, Psychologist
Cate Corcoran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Not accepting new clients
Repeated success in: Work difficulties, current job or discovering your path.
PLEASE NOTE MY PRACTICE IS FULL AS OF 7/1/2024 As a fully licensed Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, I bring years of experience to the private practice of psychotherapy. Together with you, I help discover patterns, assumptions, conflicts, and internal limitations that are holding you back from a greater sense of happiness, confidence, connection, self-understanding and future direction. My approach is tailored to your specific needs, and I treat root causes, not just symptoms. I work with couples to help move past stuck patterns, while deepening communication and connection.
Repeated success in: Work difficulties, current job or discovering your path.
PLEASE NOTE MY PRACTICE IS FULL AS OF 7/1/2024 As a fully licensed Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, I bring years of experience to the private practice of psychotherapy. Together with you, I help discover patterns, assumptions, conflicts, and internal limitations that are holding you back from a greater sense of happiness, confidence, connection, self-understanding and future direction. My approach is tailored to your specific needs, and I treat root causes, not just symptoms. I work with couples to help move past stuck patterns, while deepening communication and connection.
(415) 237-4366 View (415) 237-4366
Photo of Dean Herman, PhD, Psychologist
Dean Herman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
I support my clients in three key areas: (1) effectively navigating career and workplace challenges; (2) improving their confidence and self-esteem; and (3) enhancing their relationships. As both a therapist and executive coach for 20+ years, I've intensively studied many approaches to psychotherapy and human development to be as helpful and effective as I can. Which of these approaches we'd use will depend on your unique needs and what we decide together best fits for you. I’m focused on significant progress in the short term and even more change and development over time. My approach overall is warm, accepting and personal.
I support my clients in three key areas: (1) effectively navigating career and workplace challenges; (2) improving their confidence and self-esteem; and (3) enhancing their relationships. As both a therapist and executive coach for 20+ years, I've intensively studied many approaches to psychotherapy and human development to be as helpful and effective as I can. Which of these approaches we'd use will depend on your unique needs and what we decide together best fits for you. I’m focused on significant progress in the short term and even more change and development over time. My approach overall is warm, accepting and personal.
(510) 650-1154 View (510) 650-1154
Photo of Dave Kalloor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Kalloor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dave :) I want to help you feel more connected with yourself and those around you. I'm an Indian-American therapist skilled in helping people move through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family concerns, and school/career issues.
Hi, I'm Dave :) I want to help you feel more connected with yourself and those around you. I'm an Indian-American therapist skilled in helping people move through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family concerns, and school/career issues.
(510) 726-6748 View (510) 726-6748
Photo of Christina Ting-Ting Shiue, PhD, Psychologist
Christina Ting-Ting Shiue
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with specialized training and experience in child, adolescent and family therapy. I work with people of all ages and life stages dealing with the high-pressures of life that can affect relationships or leave you feeling stuck or unhappy. I love the collaborative work of therapy and will work hard to help you identify changes that can be made to positively impact your relationships, career and self. Together, we can puzzle things out together, break down your goals into manageable steps and build a more fulfilling life. Sometimes, you need someone to help you get started and guide you to stay on course.
I am a licensed psychologist with specialized training and experience in child, adolescent and family therapy. I work with people of all ages and life stages dealing with the high-pressures of life that can affect relationships or leave you feeling stuck or unhappy. I love the collaborative work of therapy and will work hard to help you identify changes that can be made to positively impact your relationships, career and self. Together, we can puzzle things out together, break down your goals into manageable steps and build a more fulfilling life. Sometimes, you need someone to help you get started and guide you to stay on course.
(510) 726-6133 View (510) 726-6133
Photo of Steven Herrmann, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven Herrmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
We may talk about relationships, career, family, school, addiction, grief, parenting and aging to help you work through challenging issues.
Jungian Analyst Steven Herrmann, Ph.D., MFT, Montclair, Oakland, California. Are you looking to find ways to make changes in order to live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? Then I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems. This may lead to a reduction in painful symptoms, an opening of vocational possibilities, a newly found sense of joy, and to the transformation of your personality. Please feel free to visit my website at stevenherrmann.com
We may talk about relationships, career, family, school, addiction, grief, parenting and aging to help you work through challenging issues.
Jungian Analyst Steven Herrmann, Ph.D., MFT, Montclair, Oakland, California. Are you looking to find ways to make changes in order to live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? Then I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems. This may lead to a reduction in painful symptoms, an opening of vocational possibilities, a newly found sense of joy, and to the transformation of your personality. Please feel free to visit my website at stevenherrmann.com
(510) 531-2534 View (510) 531-2534
Photo of Hong Jeong, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hong Jeong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I also specialized in treating anxiety due to multicultural issues (loss of identity, career issues, & dysfunctional family dynamics).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
I also specialized in treating anxiety due to multicultural issues (loss of identity, career issues, & dysfunctional family dynamics).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
(213) 275-2192 View (213) 275-2192
Photo of Sharon Frasier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Frasier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
During challenging times, people often feel defeated and focus on what is wrong. I want to shift the focus from what is "not working" to identifying what is "working." We will work to uncover patterns (behavioral, thought beliefs, relationship), that will lead you to making better decisions. I want to offer a safe place to process thoughts and feelings around issues that can be challenging. I am interested in helping people who experience stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss and challenges with relationships (social or romantic). Many conversations are around “adulting” and how to manage life, career, relationships, etc.
During challenging times, people often feel defeated and focus on what is wrong. I want to shift the focus from what is "not working" to identifying what is "working." We will work to uncover patterns (behavioral, thought beliefs, relationship), that will lead you to making better decisions. I want to offer a safe place to process thoughts and feelings around issues that can be challenging. I am interested in helping people who experience stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss and challenges with relationships (social or romantic). Many conversations are around “adulting” and how to manage life, career, relationships, etc.
(510) 756-4628 View (510) 756-4628
Photo of William L. Spivey, PhD, Psychologist
William L. Spivey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Dr. Spivey is the Director of a small group practice located in the heart of the medical district in Oakland, CA. He offers more than 35 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD within adults and adolescents. He takes a holistic approach by integrating concerns of health, diet, and exercise. Dr. Spivey also works with those suffering from occupational diseases, including job stress, feeling stale on the job, burnout, and job unhappiness. Other areas of endeavors include personality reshaping, motivation, and marital enhancement.
Dr. Spivey is the Director of a small group practice located in the heart of the medical district in Oakland, CA. He offers more than 35 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD within adults and adolescents. He takes a holistic approach by integrating concerns of health, diet, and exercise. Dr. Spivey also works with those suffering from occupational diseases, including job stress, feeling stale on the job, burnout, and job unhappiness. Other areas of endeavors include personality reshaping, motivation, and marital enhancement.
(510) 730-3273 View (510) 730-3273
Photo of Michaela Thompson - Michaela Thompson - Be You Therapy and Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michaela Thompson - Be You Therapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who is ready and willing to become the best version of themselves. I am a down to earth psychotherapist, that will meet YOU where you are! I work with individual adults ages 18 and up, who have issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, pregnancy, post-partum, mood disorders, trauma, family conflict, relationships and stress. I can also support those who have challenges with adjusting to new situations, and career stress.
My ideal client is one who is ready and willing to become the best version of themselves. I am a down to earth psychotherapist, that will meet YOU where you are! I work with individual adults ages 18 and up, who have issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, pregnancy, post-partum, mood disorders, trauma, family conflict, relationships and stress. I can also support those who have challenges with adjusting to new situations, and career stress.
(510) 617-1638 View (510) 617-1638
Photo of Mary Joye, LCPC
Mary Joye
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
Trauma, Anxiety, Codependency, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Couples and marriage counseling, Family counseling, Grief counseling , Highly sensitive person (empath), Personality disorders, Narcissistic abuse, Domestic violence recovery, Sexual abuse recovery, Career counseling, Divorce counseling, Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Hello, I'm Mary Joye, and I am here to help you listen to yourself from a new and nonjudgmental perspective. We will work together to make connections between the past and the present to help you enjoy a brighter and better future.
Trauma, Anxiety, Codependency, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Couples and marriage counseling, Family counseling, Grief counseling , Highly sensitive person (empath), Personality disorders, Narcissistic abuse, Domestic violence recovery, Sexual abuse recovery, Career counseling, Divorce counseling, Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Hello, I'm Mary Joye, and I am here to help you listen to yourself from a new and nonjudgmental perspective. We will work together to make connections between the past and the present to help you enjoy a brighter and better future.
(415) 993-3792 View (415) 993-3792
Photo of Barbara Cox, PhD, Psychologist
Barbara Cox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
What if you could tap into your own inner wisdom and discover how to lead the life you’ve always dreamed of? Listening to this internal voice is how your true potential emerges, from getting that promotion to finding a new job, attracting your soulmate, coping with stress and anxiety, or finding your life’s purpose and loving yourself for exactly who you are.
Is life feeling like a struggle? Let's work together to help you feel better than you have in a long time. We can work together to clear anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, work stress, uncover your strengths and purpose, enjoy your life again. If you feel stuck, afraid or down, we can work together to get you feeling calm and centered. I have specialties in treating anxiety disorders, as well as work stress and professional burnout. I enjoy working with many types of clients, + therapy to other therapists. Check out my book for women 'The Muse Process: Unleashing the Power of the Feminine'. I look forward to helping you!
What if you could tap into your own inner wisdom and discover how to lead the life you’ve always dreamed of? Listening to this internal voice is how your true potential emerges, from getting that promotion to finding a new job, attracting your soulmate, coping with stress and anxiety, or finding your life’s purpose and loving yourself for exactly who you are.
Is life feeling like a struggle? Let's work together to help you feel better than you have in a long time. We can work together to clear anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, work stress, uncover your strengths and purpose, enjoy your life again. If you feel stuck, afraid or down, we can work together to get you feeling calm and centered. I have specialties in treating anxiety disorders, as well as work stress and professional burnout. I enjoy working with many types of clients, + therapy to other therapists. Check out my book for women 'The Muse Process: Unleashing the Power of the Feminine'. I look forward to helping you!
(510) 890-3327 View (510) 890-3327
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.