What is the job all about?
Counsellors guide individuals through personal, family, educational, mental health, and career challenges. They help clients explore their feelings and emotions, leading to a better understanding of their personal situations. Counsellors then assist clients in adjusting their thought patterns and actions for a more positive outcome. It is essential for counsellors to be non-judgmental, maintain strict confidentiality, and offer clients encouragement and support.
Can I go for it?
If you possess patience, empathy, and compassion, you could excel in this field. As a counsellor, you will listen to clients’ problems and discuss various alternatives they can consider. The goal is to help individuals feel that their problems are manageable and that the solutions offered are worth trying. Counsellors do not give direct advice but rather guide clients in making their own informed decisions within the framework of an agreed counselling process.
Counselling can be conducted in group settings (therapy) or on a one-on-one basis. To become a licensed counsellor, you must have a Master’s degree in psychology or social work and be registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI).
Is there a future in this field?
In today’s fast-paced world, stress levels are increasingly high, and many individuals struggle to keep up with the demands of life. This makes the role of a counsellor essential. If you have the patience and expertise to help others, this can be a highly rewarding career.
Where do I start?
In Goa
• St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa: Offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Clinical Psychology.
• Carmel College: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Counselling.
• Nirmala Institute, Panaji: Offers a Master’s program in Counselling.
• Other colleges in Goa, such as Dhempe College (Panaji), Chowgule College (Margao), and MES College (Vasco), offer undergraduate programs in psychology.
Outside Goa
• Christ University
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)
• Ambedkar University, New Delhi
Employment Avenues
Counsellors can find employment in both public and private clinics that offer specialized counselling programs, such as child psychology, marital counselling, teenage issues, and career counselling. Schools now often have dedicated counselling departments where students receive support for academic and personal challenges. Counsellors may also provide guidance to parents, especially in situations where family dynamics are affecting the student.
Additionally, you can establish a private practice offering counselling services, including various assessments such as aptitude tests.
Monetary Potential
Like most careers, the initial earnings in counselling may be modest. However, with persistence and experience, financial rewards can increase significantly over time.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024