I Want to Work In .... Counselling

PROFILE: Counsellor

INVOLVES: Enabling individuals to come to terms with & try to solve problems or issues often of a very emotional & personal variety. Can also work with groups of people in this way.
EMPLOYERS: Self-employment, Education: Universities, schools (mostly Secondary level). NHS
RELATED JOBS: psychotherapy, social work, youth work, clinical psychology, careers adviser.
SATISFACTIONS: Working intimately with a small range of clients. Helping people.
NEGATIVES: Employment opportunities are limited. Risks in self-employment. Income can be sporadic.
SKILLS: Counselling-related (listening, summarising, caring, challenging, focusing etc.), Oral communication skills including verbal comprehension.
ADVANCEMENT: Some management opportunities exist, especially among Education sector employers. More difficult with regard to self-employment.
DEGREE: All subjects relevant, although psychology, sociology, social work & nursing of particular relevance.
POSTGRADUATE STUDY: A BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) recognised Certificate or Diploma would be of great benefit.
VACANCY SOURCES: Counselling Jobs Online - British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy web site. The Guardian (Tues & Wed in particular), Local Press.
TIPS: Study a vocational Counselling course (preferably BACP recognised) first. Undertake voluntary work with Samaritans, Relate, Mind etc. in order to acquire additional practical skills & make contacts.

How many counsellors does it take to change a light bulb? Just one, but the bulb must want to change.

Meditation is not what you think.

Meditation has no future!