Career Counseling Therapists in Oakland, CA

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 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 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 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 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.
View
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 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 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
Photo of Alan G Vaughan - Psychological Services, PhD, JD, Psychologist
Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges that generate varied degrees of stress, anxiety and depression, even substance abuse. Challenges may include: Personal and family relationships, finances, career, illness and loss of creative engagement with your self and the world. Psychotherapy can offer time and a special place for self discovery, reflection, revitalization, resilience, insight, empowerment and access to your creativity; creative expression and creative living. Our lives can be what we imagine and want them to be. We can develop our active imagination to envision a life of purpose, meaning and the joy we are meant to have.
Life is full of challenges that generate varied degrees of stress, anxiety and depression, even substance abuse. Challenges may include: Personal and family relationships, finances, career, illness and loss of creative engagement with your self and the world. Psychotherapy can offer time and a special place for self discovery, reflection, revitalization, resilience, insight, empowerment and access to your creativity; creative expression and creative living. Our lives can be what we imagine and want them to be. We can develop our active imagination to envision a life of purpose, meaning and the joy we are meant to have.
(510) 880-3857 View (510) 880-3857
Photo of Adriana Gonzalez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adriana Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
My desire to help others who may be struggling to understand or cope with their own mental health issues is what attracted me to a career as a therapist.
Hi, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Gonzalez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Riverside, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am dedicated to serving adolescents and their families and specialize in treating anxiety, stress, and behavioral health disorders using solution-focused and family-centered treatment to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build the necessary skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
My desire to help others who may be struggling to understand or cope with their own mental health issues is what attracted me to a career as a therapist.
Hi, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Gonzalez and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Riverside, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am dedicated to serving adolescents and their families and specialize in treating anxiety, stress, and behavioral health disorders using solution-focused and family-centered treatment to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build the necessary skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
(510) 680-2302 View (510) 680-2302
Photo of Alena Hutchinson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alena Hutchinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I work frequently with anxiety and stress, workplace and relationship issues, adult ADHD;, depression, dealing with difficult/ controlling people; major life transitions (relationship endings, career changes, etc.
My approach in therapy is to create a warm, non-judgmental, interactive atmosphere in which we can bring the wisdom of your highest and best self to your current difficulties and dilemmas. I am attuned to the effect of unconscious patterns that begin in childhood and yet try to work in the present, trusting that the past -- to the extent it is important -- will show up in the present. My belief is that human beings naturally tend toward wholeness. I use education and mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques to enable you to participate fully in your own healing and growth.
I work frequently with anxiety and stress, workplace and relationship issues, adult ADHD;, depression, dealing with difficult/ controlling people; major life transitions (relationship endings, career changes, etc.
My approach in therapy is to create a warm, non-judgmental, interactive atmosphere in which we can bring the wisdom of your highest and best self to your current difficulties and dilemmas. I am attuned to the effect of unconscious patterns that begin in childhood and yet try to work in the present, trusting that the past -- to the extent it is important -- will show up in the present. My belief is that human beings naturally tend toward wholeness. I use education and mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques to enable you to participate fully in your own healing and growth.
(415) 397-8300 View (415) 397-8300
Photo of Nick Wightman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nick Wightman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Deciding to start therapy is a sign of strength. I believe all people have a natural inclination toward growth and wholeness and sometimes things get in the way. Exploring these obstacles with compassion and courage can help you cultivate the most important relationship of your life -- your relationship with yourself. Whether your challenge is depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, addictions or career challenges, all you need to get started is the desire to change.
Deciding to start therapy is a sign of strength. I believe all people have a natural inclination toward growth and wholeness and sometimes things get in the way. Exploring these obstacles with compassion and courage can help you cultivate the most important relationship of your life -- your relationship with yourself. Whether your challenge is depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, addictions or career challenges, all you need to get started is the desire to change.
(510) 403-8480 View (510) 403-8480
Photo of Ruth Lieu, PsyD, Psychologist
Ruth Lieu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Welcome! I work with adult clients looking for help and support with a range of challenges. My specializations are in depression, anxiety, relationships, and critical life transitions. I also provide career coaching. I have a background in clinical psychology and business and commonly work with clients seeking help with struggles they experience emotionally and personally that keep them from reaching their full potential. My goal is to help clients feel better and healthier so that they can enjoy a life engaged in activities that are meaningful to them and connected to people that fulfill them.
Welcome! I work with adult clients looking for help and support with a range of challenges. My specializations are in depression, anxiety, relationships, and critical life transitions. I also provide career coaching. I have a background in clinical psychology and business and commonly work with clients seeking help with struggles they experience emotionally and personally that keep them from reaching their full potential. My goal is to help clients feel better and healthier so that they can enjoy a life engaged in activities that are meaningful to them and connected to people that fulfill them.
(415) 969-2210 View (415) 969-2210
Photo of Alex Tipton, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alex Tipton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
(415) 322-5279 View (415) 322-5279
Photo of Henna Cho, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henna Cho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you feeling alone, unheard, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, fatigue, and excessive worrying that impact your relationships and career? I’m glad you’re taking the time to notice these changes and to invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. In sessions, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify ways to incorporate positive changes for your negative thought patterns. Thus, you will learn to become better equipped in maintaining your personal or professional goals. I am committed to helping my clients decrease anxiety and manage healthy relationships.
Are you feeling alone, unheard, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, fatigue, and excessive worrying that impact your relationships and career? I’m glad you’re taking the time to notice these changes and to invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. In sessions, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify ways to incorporate positive changes for your negative thought patterns. Thus, you will learn to become better equipped in maintaining your personal or professional goals. I am committed to helping my clients decrease anxiety and manage healthy relationships.
(213) 516-6404 View (213) 516-6404
Photo of Tricia Kim Walsh, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tricia Kim Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel depleted from finding the "right fit" couples or individual therapist? Have you just entered into a new developmental life phase (relocation/college/graduation/job change/new relationship/engagement/marriage/separation, etc.). Or maybe your mood, anxiety, communication and/or relational problems have you so stuck, you can no longer can focus on what is most important in your life. I am an authentic and integrative therapist who is focused on helping you find your own solutions and voice. I specialize in work with individual adults, teens and families. Call or message me for a free 20 minute telephone consultation today.
Do you feel depleted from finding the "right fit" couples or individual therapist? Have you just entered into a new developmental life phase (relocation/college/graduation/job change/new relationship/engagement/marriage/separation, etc.). Or maybe your mood, anxiety, communication and/or relational problems have you so stuck, you can no longer can focus on what is most important in your life. I am an authentic and integrative therapist who is focused on helping you find your own solutions and voice. I specialize in work with individual adults, teens and families. Call or message me for a free 20 minute telephone consultation today.
(925) 392-0834 View (925) 392-0834
Photo of Victoria Alberini, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Alberini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their career and work life, mothers, women, pregnancy, and postpartum clients. To learn more about me, please visit victoriaalberini.com.
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their career and work life, mothers, women, pregnancy, and postpartum clients. To learn more about me, please visit victoriaalberini.com.
(415) 594-4144 View (415) 594-4144
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.