Counseling, Definition of

Robinder P. Bedi & JoséF. Domene

Professional counseling is a skilled activity that involves assisting others in managing and resolving psychological, emotional, behavioral, developmental, relational, vocational, and other personal challenges (chronic or acute) in order to facilitate adjustment to changing life circumstances; promote personal growth, needs attainment, and overall Wellness throughout the life span; and prevent the development of more serious conditions. At its essence, professional counseling involves the formal application of theoretical and empirically supported psychological, developmental, and learning principles to facilitate desired change or growth within a larger system of ethical and professional practice standards. These principles are implemented through specifically tailored cognitive, affective, behavioral, and systemic strategies and interventions delivered through therapeutically oriented conversations and interactions. Originally derived from the Latin root, consulo , meaning to advise, deliberate, or consult, counseling can be conceptualized ...

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