Counsellor

As a counsellor, you could use different types of therapy to:

• discuss and agree what to cover in sessions
•  build trust with a client in person, online or over the phone
•  listen carefully, ask questions and check understanding of the issues
•  help your client to talk about their feelings, see things more clearly and find ways to cope
•  empathise but challenge when necessary
•  keep confidential records

You could work with individuals, couples, families or groups.

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• knowledge of psychology
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• excellent verbal communication skills
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• training with a counselling organisation

If you're a new counsellor, It's important to get peer support to develop your skills.

With experience you could:

• specialise in an area like bereavement support, relationships or addiction
•  become a counsellor supervisor or trainer
•  move into management or consultancy
•  set up your own practice and work for yourself