B1 2K

Counseling

UK //ˈkaʊnsəlɪŋ// US //ˈkaʊnsəlɪŋ// Pronunciation

Definition

The professional practice of providing support and guidance for personal issues.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Talking to someone who helps you with your problems.

Examples

• She decided to seek counseling for her anxiety issues.
• The school offers free counseling services to students.
• After the divorce, he benefitted from counseling sessions.

Usage notes

Used in both personal and professional contexts, often associated with mental health support. It is not typically used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'counsel' and 'counseling' as talking to a 'counselor' for support.

Collocations

• group counseling
• individual counseling
• counseling session
• counseling center
• career counseling

Synonyms

• therapy
• guidance
• advice
• consultation
• support

Antonyms

• neglect
• disregard
• misguidance

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'counsel' as a verb; 'counseling' is the noun form.
• Used in informal settings instead of professional contexts.
• Spelling errors such as 'counselling' (correct in British English).