A counselor is a qualified practitioner who offers support, advice and organized plans to assist individuals to overcome emotional, psychological, social, or academic difficulties. The task of a counselor is not to provide direct advice, but to establish a nonjudgmental and safe environment in which individuals can examine their thoughts and emotions, form awareness, and learn to cope in a healthier way.
Present-day counseling is based on evidence-based practice, incorporating methods to tackle both the short-term and long-term personal development. Recent research points out that in person and digital-based counseling can be useful to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, as well as enhance resilience and well-being. The work of counselors is widely dispersed as they work in various locations including schools, healthcare, workplaces, and private practice. Empathy, collaboration and respect of the individuality of the client are central to the counseling process. This working relationship helps individuals make significant change and makes them more capable of overcoming life challenges.