How to become a counsellor

You and I are part of a heavily competitive world where our responsibilities and goals have forced us to sideline our emotions and only focus on what can be achieved and accomplished. Almost everyone reading this would agree that the consequence of this ignorance has left us struggling in our life. We give in to parties and drown ourselves in alcohol or spend thousands just to take a quick trip as a means of escape and are still left longing for solitude. Our mental health keeps going downhill.  

This is the time when we wish to talk to someone who listens and understands; someone who can feel what we feel and give us solutions which may help. In the real world, we call them a counsellor. Their value and importance thus, is undeniable, especially in a country where worsening mental health is impacting the economy, relationships, and personal growth of individuals.  

A counsellor is a mental health professional who helps individuals deal with their personal challenges such as loss, addiction, trauma, and career transitions, by establishing trustworthy relationships and offering valuable support to their clients. In this regard, if you too are passionate about helping others and share a keen interest in the field of Psychology, this is the perfect time to pursue a career as a counsellor and embark on a fulfilling path for yourself.  

To begin with, you must possess some qualities that enable you to become a professional counsellor:  

What is the scope of counselling in India? 

The scope of counselling is very broad. It focuses on various issues and developments that take place in an individual’s life, encompassing financial and health planning, family, societal, and emotional issues, among several other things. There is huge scope for counselling in major specializations like family counselling, career counselling, group counselling and client-centered counselling.  

The Times of India reports that the country urgently needs 15 lakhs+ counsellors to serve 315 million+ school children. These problematic figures highlight the need for immediate action. According to another survey conducted by India Times, schools in India need more counsellors as the percentage of students experiencing mental health issues continue to rise on an exceptional scale.  

Top career options for aspiring counsellors: 

Types of counsellors in India: 

The field of counselling is diverse and ever evolving with different types of counsellors. Based on their interests, qualifications, and experiences, counsellors usually specialize in more than one area of counselling. Let’s now explore the most popular types of counsellors in India: 

Clinical counsellors: 

They have a minimum of a master’s degree in psychology, counselling or education. They specialize in providing individual and group counselling services to couples, individuals and families.  

Educational counsellors: 

They help students and adults make decisions about their academic choices. They do so by offering guidance, advice, and support on academic goals, career planning, and educational performance.  

Mental health counsellors: 

They use diverse evidence-based techniques to help individuals manage their mental health issues like depression. addiction, anxiety and stress.  

Marriage and family counsellors: 

They provide couples, families and individuals with emotional support, practical advice and education on improving their relationships and refining their communication skills.  

Rehabilitation counsellors: 

They help people with physical, cognitive or psychological impairments adjust to life after suffering an injury or going through an illness. They make use of these techniques to improve the quality of life for their clients and their families.  

Career counsellors: 

They provide advice and assistance to people who seek employment or wish to explore career prospects that align with their interests. They help their clients understand their skills and points of interest and accordingly assess possible job options based on these qualities.  

Core counselling skills of a successful counsellor: 

Success is not guaranteed if you have pursued tons of degrees. To become a successful counsellor, you must acquire some relevant skills that help you understand the hidden factors and make you capable of delivering the best-personalized solution.  

Let’s shift our focus to the core skills when you’re considering a career in counselling: 

Becoming a successful counselor is more than just a career choice—it’s a commitment to making a profound difference in people’s lives. In a world where mental health issues are increasingly impacting individuals and society, the role of a counselor has never been more critical. Whether you're drawn to helping students navigate their futures, supporting individuals through personal struggles, or guiding families towards stronger relationships, there is a wide range of opportunities to make a meaningful impact. 

To excel as a counselor, it’s essential to cultivate key skills such as active listening, empathy, and patience, and to pursue the necessary education and licensing. The diverse specializations within counseling offer unique paths to cater to various needs and interests, from career counseling to mental health support. 

As India faces a growing demand for qualified counselors, especially within educational settings, now is an opportune time to step into this rewarding field. With dedication and the right qualifications, you can become a beacon of support, helping individuals overcome challenges and lead more fulfilling lives. Embrace this journey with passion and purpose, and you’ll be well on your way to making a lasting difference.