Types of Counselling Programs and Their Scope

Have you ever thought about the time when you felt so relieved after sharing the details of trauma with one of your close friends? It was because you went through a cathartic process to let all of the disturbing thoughts out. The process of getting rid of the negative thoughts or energy and replacing it with positivity, optimism, and hope is called counseling. It enables us to understand our behavior and thought process, recover from trauma, and strengthen relationships.

According to a 2018 study by the market research firm Barna Group, every four in 10 Americans have sought a counselor’s advice at some point in time. It means that 42 percent of citizens are seeking counseling. It also says that 36 percent of Americans are open to receiving counseling therapy. And this ratio is increasing as 13 percent say they are attending counseling sessions at present.

The fact is that every one of us is apparently in need of venting out their negative emotions. It is typically true in the ongoing situation when each person is affected in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. With that being said, it is important to understand different types of counseling programs to be able to make an informed decision. This article will elaborate on different types of programs as well as their scope in the upcoming days. Whether you are on the crossroads of choosing the right program or aspiring to become a counselor, this write-up will be of assistance. So, let’s start.

1. Education Counseling

In the modern age’s cutthroat competition, it is easier to understand the meaning of exam-related stress and anxiety. According to a 2015 survey by the American Psychological Association, a staggering 61 percent of college students report feeling anxiety. Moreover, there was a 30 percent increase in those seeking counseling. Whether it is about the pressure to attain good grades or affording a tuition fee, education counseling seems to be the solution.

An education counselor may help a student in having better control over the through-process and overcome stress. They develop expertise by earning relevant educational qualification through a Bachelors or Masters in Counseling online and training programs.

2. Mental Health Counseling

Counseling in the field of mental health is gaining importance because of the rising societal problems. According to the latest government statistics, nearly one in five persons have a mental illness. It says that the ratio of people living with the illness stands at 46.6 million. Counselors make use of digital tools and online networking to raise awareness about an illness. This approach helps anyone to identify their symptoms and act in time. It also enables a person experiencing depression, PTSD, and bipolar or another disorder to become capable of overcoming the issue.

The high prevalence of mental health issues is evidence that there is a certain scope in the field. The fact is the workforce of mental health counselors is not growing proportionate to the patients, so there is a need to increase the ratio.

3. Substance Abuse Counseling

Substance abuse is a pressing issue in the United States and all over the world; it needs to be addressed forthwith. Qualified counselors help the victims of the abuse streamline their emotions and regain control over their life. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 19.7 million adults were found to be suffering from a substance use disorder. Competent counselors help the victims gain an understanding of the consequences of their actions. They work with them step by step to control their problem and bringing normalcy to their lives.

Aspiring psychologists and therapists work with the victims to have a thought process to lead them towards a better life. Such professionals have a large scope in the field because they are well versed in control of drug and alcohol consumption. They have a chance to work with governmental institutions as well as non-governmental organizations.

4. Family and Marriage Counseling

Personal relationships, families, and couples are having a hard time dealing with the COVID-19 lockdown. It has been difficult to bond with each other and keep personal ties intact. Other than this scenario, generally, many families require counseling at some point in time to resolve the differences and stay together. Counselors who work in this field have a thorough understanding of the issues and how to mitigate, diffuse, and solve them. They also assist couples to realize their good sides and discover whatever possibilities they have of surviving a crisis.

If you have a tact for how relationships work and couples can be counseled, you can have a good future in this field. A qualified counselor offers assistance by spotting the problem and devising a workable solution.

5. Rehabilitation Counseling

In this field, a psychologist or therapist helps the patients overcome all of their physical or emotional disabilities. They also help them ensure independent living and enable them to find rewarding employment opportunities. These counselors have a good grasp of understanding the strengths and weaknesses of their patients. In the longer run, the rehabilitation centers help people realize their potential and stand on their feet.

Aspiring rehabilitation counselors can find a diverse scope of employment with non-governmental organizations as well as international bodies working to empower people with disabilities.

Final Word

Counseling programs have become the need of the time to help people out of distress and realize their true strength. Expert professionals work with the patients in gradual steps to fully empower them to confront the severity of an issue. They provide adequate and proper advice to spot the problem and resolve it through lasting means. If you have been aspiring to become a professional counselor, but are unsure where to begin, you can enroll in a suitable degree program. However, you should review all the fields mentioned above before making an important career decision. Choose a field you feel most connected with so that you can passionately serve the people and bring out the best in them.