07/22/2009

What services do career counselors offer?

Services of career professionals differ, depending on the professional's level of training, competence, setting, client needs, and other factors.  Career counselors, those professionals attaining at least a Master's degree in counseling or a related degree and who hold state or national license or credentials,  advise, coach, and counsel individuals to develop and put into action decisions and plans related to lifestyles and career paths.  Strategies, techniques, and assessments used by career counselors are tailored to the specific needs and cultural/diversity considerations of the individual seeking assistance.  Dependent upon the career counselor's role and services provided, it is likely one or more of the following services will be offered:

• Conduct individual and group personal counseling sessions addressing the connection between personal and career issues as related to career/life goals and the importance of understanding the overlap between work and other life roles.
• Create a supportive environment to promote self-advocacy and determination.
• Administer and interpret assessments and inventories to evaluate interests, values, abilities, skills, personality traits, and other factors to increase self knowledge and identify career options.
• Facilitate exploratory activities using customized approaches to gather information and increase level of knowledge.
• Introduce, educate, and apply decision-making skills to promote making informed education and career decisions.
• Demonstrate and advise on the use of computer-based systems and internet services as a tool to assist individuals in career planning and understanding the world of work.
• Collaboratively develop short and/or long-term individualized career plans.
• Teach job search strategies and skills to assist in areas such as networking, resume critiques, interview techniques, labor market trends, and salary negotiation.
• Guide through exploration of graduate and professional school options, timeline, preparation, testing requirements and the application process.
• Provide support for individuals experiencing job conflicts, job stress, job loss, and career transition.
• Provide assistance in the selection of a graduate or professional school.
• Make appropriate referrals to other professionals, organizations, and community resources based upon individual's unique needs or as a result of counselor's limitations.
• Present and consult with the general public on career development information and resources.
• Engage in local, state and/or national career development issues effecting social policies and legislation.