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Careers in Counseling
Client meeting with a mental health counselor during a supportive therapy session.
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Overview

What Is the Field of Counseling?

Counseling careers focus on enhancing the mental health, wellness and quality of life of individuals, families and communities. Counselors utilize evidence‑based counseling theories and techniques, ethical practices and compassionate communication to support people through challenges. 

Professionals draw on their understanding of human growth and development and various counseling approaches to address emotional, social and behavioral concerns. By honing essential skills such as listening, critical thinking and interpersonal communication, counselors can effectively make a difference.

17%

Estimated growth for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors expected from 2024 to 2034(See disclaimer 1)

Careers

Explore Careers in Counseling

Below, you’ll find examples of the many career paths available in this field.

Addiction counselor sitting with patient in a therapy office setting
Addiction Counselor
Marriage counselor with a couple sitting on a couch
Marriage Counselor
Social worker walking with an elderly woman using a cane by a poolside, offering companionship and support.
Social Worker
A female therapist seated, smiles at a client as she listens during a one-on-one therapy session.
Therapist

Explore More Psychology & Counseling Topics

Counseling session with intern taking notes during client intake, illustrating hands-on training in CMHC practicum and internship settings.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) Practicum vs. Internship: What's the Difference?

06/24/2026

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12 min read

Person speaking with clinician during therapy session, highlighting emotional wellbeing, behaviors and care support.

Behavioral Health vs. Mental Health: What’s the Difference?

06/18/2026

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5 min read

Psychology professional meeting with a client in a counseling setting, representing different types of psychology and areas of specialization.

Types of Psychology and Areas of Specialization

05/26/2026

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6 min read

Counselor working at a desk in a home office with organized shelves and a computer setup.
Start Making a Difference Through Counseling

Take the next step toward a counseling career. Explore how a degree from GCU can help you gain the knowledge and skills needed to support mental health and well-being.

Apply Now
  1. COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors, retrieved January 2026. 
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