Counseling psychology is a fascinating field that involves the application of psychological principles to help individuals deal with various mental and emotional issues. With a focus on the counseling process itself, rather than the specific content of the issues being addressed, counseling psychologists play a critical role in helping people improve their quality of life and mental well-being.

In order to become a counseling psychologist, individuals must typically complete a graduate program in counseling psychology or a related field. Many programs require a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, as well as relevant coursework in areas such as abnormal psychology, counseling theory, and research methods. Some programs may also require applicants to have relevant work or volunteer experience, as well as letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining their interest in counseling psychology.

When looking to apply to a graduate program in counseling psychology, it is important to research the specific admission requirements of each institution. Some universities may require GRE scores, while others may require a certain GPA or specific prerequisite courses. Additionally, applicants may need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing their career goals and reasons for pursuing a career in counseling psychology. It is important to carefully review and follow all admission instructions to ensure a successful application process.

Counseling Psychology

Counseling psychology is a field that focuses on helping people overcome their mental health issues. It is a relatively new field, having only been established as a separate discipline in the mid-20th century. Counseling psychologists work with clients who are experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship problems.

Counseling psychology is a new field that has only recently been established as a separate discipline. It was first recognized as an area of study at the University of Chicago in the 1950s. Since then, it has spread across the country and gained popularity as one of the fastest growing careers for psychologists today.

The goal of counseling psychologists is to help clients overcome their mental health issues by providing them with treatment options based on their individual needs and abilities. They work with people who are suffering from anxiety disorders or depression; those who have struggled with substance abuse problems; or those who are having trouble maintaining healthy relationships in their lives because of past trauma or abuse experiences that may still be affecting them today.”

what is counseling psychology

Counseling psychology focuses on teaching patients of all ages how to cope with emotional, physical, and mental health issues.

Counseling psychologists often focus on patients’ daily life stressors, helping them find a balanced approach to overcoming stress. Some counseling psychologists intervene and assist people in times of crisis or extreme stress, providing assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of more severe psychological symptoms.

Continue reading to explore the counseling psychology field, including possible career paths.ADVERTISEMENT

Featured Online Programs

Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.VIEW MORE PROGRAMS

What Does a Counseling Psychologist Do?

Counseling psychologists facilitate healthy personal and interpersonal relationships in their patients’ lives. Professionals work with individuals, organizations, groups, and families to reach the root of mental distress and help them find ways to live with or conquer these issues.

Depending on their specialization and licensure, counseling psychologists can work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, businesses, and schools. Some open their own private practices. Counselors tailor their approach to psychotherapy based on their settings and patients. While some psychologists focus on cognitive therapy, others take a more active approach and work to alter their patients’ behavior.

Many psychologists collaborate with nurses, social workers, and other mental health professionals to find the best treatment plans for patients, at times combining aspects of multiple therapies.

No matter where or how they work, counseling psychologists need the following basic competencies.

• Skills and Competencies
• Clear Communication
• Listening Skills
• Complex Problem-Solving
• Analysis
• Trustworthiness
• Patience
• Empathy
• Establishment of Boundaries

The work of counseling psychologists varies, but the goal is always to improve the quality of patients’ lives and mental well-being. See below for some common specializations within counseling psychology.

Interesting Facts About Counseling Psychology

1. Many people think that counselling is only for people with a serious mental issue. This is not correct at all. In fact, problems that arise as everyday issues could build up and spiral out of control if we don’t handle them properly. Many people would wait until a small problem becomes a huge roadblock to their personal success before seeking professional help. This is where counselling comes in handy. It will provide a opportunity for you to deal with day to day concerns much more effectively before it escalates to higher proportions.

2. There is another common belief that only weak people go for counselling. In fact, we tend to think that only people who cannot cope with their issues would seek professional help. This is not true either. There is nothing weak about seeing a counselor. In fact, it takes inner strength to admit that you need professional help. It is one of the wisest decisions to protect your emotional health in the long run.

3. There is another belief that a stranger will not be able to help you. This is another incorrect belief. In fact, family and friends are supportive, but those relationships involve give and take. When you see a counselor, it is all about yourself. You will not have any anxiety with the counselor since you know that you will not be judged for what you reveal in front of him/her.

4. Many people hear other people’s stories and believe that counselling will not work for them. This is another common misconception in society. Just because counselling did not work for one person, it doesn’t mean it will not work for you. Counselors employ different therapy approaches and methods. Also, the success or failure will depend on your openness to the process of counselling.

5. You may think that counselors only listen and take note without saying anything. This is not true at all. Counselling is an interactive two-way process where the counselor will help explore the choices in front of you.

6. Many people are ashamed of seeing a counselor thinking that everyone will know that they are seeing one. This is not true since counselors are bound by very strict codes of ethics. They will guarantee the confidentiality of your visits.

7. Counselors are professionals who are educated and trained in the subject of psychology and therapy. You have nothing to fear in seeing one of them whenever you are faced with an emotional issue, which you cannot deal with by yourself.

Areas of Expertise in the Counseling Psychology Field

• 1. Substance Abuse/Addiction
• 2. Education
• 3. Rehabilitation
• 4. Mental Health

Counseling Psychology By the Numbers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects psychology jobs to grow 14% between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average rate for other professions. Counseling psychologists often work in schools, private offices of health practitioners, family services centers, and outpatient care centers. Of the many industries that employ counseling and clinical psychologists, home healthcare services, colleges, and outpatient care centers serve as some of the top-paying workplaces.

Counseling psychologists earn a mean annual wage of $87,450. However, several factors influence earnings, including geographic location, employer, experience, and education. The top-paying states for counseling psychologists include Oregon ($112,010), California ($111,750), Washington, D.C. ($106,900), and New York ($96,170). California, New York, and Texas hold the highest employment level for this profession.

How Do I Become a Counseling Psychologist?

Though students can earn a bachelor’s in counseling psychology, they need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor. Requirements for licensure vary by state, but they generally include holding a graduate degree, continued education, and proof of several thousand hours working under a licensed counselor.

Some careers, such as those in academic or research settings in higher education or private practices, require counseling psychologists to hold a doctorate.

Read on to review the steps to becoming a counseling psychologist. Choose the option which best characterizes your level of education in the field.

• The following may be included in your undergraduate coursework:
  • Intro to Psychology
  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Biological Psychology
  • Social Psychology
  • Statistical Methods
  • Psychology SeminarConsider a specialty.
  • Target your interest. Consider a focus in counseling or a similar subject.
  • Find professors or academic professionals active in this area and connect with them.Take the GRE.
  • Determine minimum scores required at the schools you’re considering for your graduate program.
  • Take multiple practice tests.
  • Enroll in a paid GRE prep course if you need to improve your practice scores.
  • Book your test date with enough time for a second try if you need to retake the exam.Get reference letters.
  • Stay friendly with professors and academic advisors. Try to be memorable to these people; they are more likely to accommodate you when you request a reference if you make an impression.
  • If you haven’t maintained these relationships, don’t hesitate to reach out to them again. They may want to get reacquainted with you before writing a reference letter.Choose a graduate school.
  • Our school database highlights the best graduate counseling psychology programs for you. A good school has an effective alumni network and career counseling services, in addition to a top academic program.
• I’m Pursuing a Graduate Degree
  • Come up with a thesis.
    • Your thesis provides a foundation for the beginning of your career. It’s never too early to start developing it; if you still have not chosen a topic, select one quickly.
    • Talk to professors about how to shape and polish your idea.
  • Find an internship.
    • Strive to complete an internship while you are still in school. Internships are great networking opportunities and import your resume.
  • Network with professors and professionals in the field.
    • The most important part of searching for jobs is networking.
    • Ask your school’s career services department for help perfecting your individual interview skills. These skills will help you throughout your career.
• I Have a Master’s or Ph.D.
  • Refine your resume and keep it current
    • Keep your resume relevant, interesting and professional.
    • Ask your friends to proofread your resume and give editorial suggestions.
    • Update your resume frequently to include your latest experiences.
  • Start sending out job applications.
    • Expect a long wait between applying to a job and getting hired. Devise a plan for how to stay consistent applying to jobs regularly and don’t get discouraged.
    • Customize your cover letter to each position you apply for; highlight your qualities that make you suitable for the job.
    • Search for potential employers on LinkedIn and reach out to them. Establishing rapport with employers can increase your chance of scoring an interview.
  • Prepare for interviews.
    • Hold mock interviews with friends to prepare.
    • Research the company before the interview. You should be able to describe their mission and what they do if asked.
    • Dress professionally, bring your resume and cover letter and be respectful in how you speak and act around potential employers.
  • You’re now a counseling psychologist.
    • You made it! Hopefully, by following the steps above, you’ve found your first job in the field.
    • Don’t stop developing your skills and knowledge after obtaining your first job. Keep abreast of the latest developments in the field and look for opportunities continue your education.

5 facts about counseling

FEAR: My problems are too vague, trivial, upsetting, or embarrassing to talk about with a counselor.

• FACT: Any concern is a valid concern. No matter how big or small your issue, caring, non-judgmental counselors are available to listen and help you work through your struggles.

FEAR: People who go to the Counseling Center are crazy, weak-willed, and/or kind of weird.

• FACT: Most people experience some emotional distress at various points in their lives, and some people seek counseling as one step in coping with this distress. Going to counseling is certainly not an indication of having a psychiatric disorder. To the contrary, this kind of choice represents a strong, splintering, courageous, mature, and responsible attitude.

FEAR: I should be strong and disciplined enough to solve problems on my own.

• FACT: Choosing to seek out counseling services when you are experiencing emotional distress reflects wisdom and courage. Professional counseling is one of the benefits available to you as a Duquesne student, so take advantage of your resources!

FEAR: Dealing with emotional issues may stir up thoughts, fears, and feelings that will interfere with my functioning as a student. Plus, I really don’t have the time to devote to it.

• FACT: These possibilities must be weighed against the ongoing and potential hazards of failing to address your concerns. It is a judgment call you must make yourself, though remember that the “ideal” time to deal with your issues may never arrive.

FEAR: People will know that I went to see a counselor.

• FACT: Counseling sessions are confidential and do not become part of your academic records or transcript. Typically, the only way others would become aware of your choice to see a counselor is if you decide to tell them.

FEAR: I’m too uncomfortable to take the first steps – making an appointment and then talking with a stranger about personal matters seems kind of scary.

• FACT: That first step (phone call; appointment) is the toughest. A certain amount of discomfort is understandable. Our staff is aware of this and can help ease you through the first steps.

COUNSELING FACTS

Did you know you can interview a counselor before you start using them? Call and chat with a counselor to see if they are the right one for you.

Most insurance companies will pay for your counseling appointment with you paying the same co-pay you pay to see your medical doctor.

The number of counseling sessions can vary greatly. You may want to just have a few sessions to work on one specific timely problem or you may be in counseling a while to deal with deeper issues.

There is individual counseling, couple counseling, and family counseling.  Which do you want? Find out if your counselor has experience with couple or family counseling (they all have experience with individual counseling).

Counseling psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on helping people with their mental health issues and personal problems. It’s a field that combines science, research, and practice to help people improve their lives through mental health counseling.

Counseling psychologists work in a variety of settings and with a wide range of clients. They can work as therapists and counselors in schools, hospitals, prisons, or with private practices. They may also have administrative roles in hospitals or other organizations.

Counseling psychologists have many specialties within the field, including:

• Clinical Psychology: A clinical psychologist is someone who diagnoses and treats mental illnesses like depression or anxiety disorders. They may also provide therapy for people who struggle with substance abuse problems or other issues related to their overall mental health.
• Clinical Child Psychology: A clinical child psychologist works specifically with children who are struggling with behavioral problems or developmental delays. These psychologists have special training in dealing with children’s unique needs when it comes to treatment for emotional problems like ADHD or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• School Psychology: School psychologists work directly with students who need help coping with school-related stressors like bullying or adjusting to new social situations because they moved recently (or even just because they’re going through puberty!).