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A day in the life of a typical counsellor is usually anything but typical. Because clients have so many varied needs, you must adjust and adapt to best serve those needs.
With that in mind, though, there are some elements that remain relatively consistent from day to day. Here is a list of some typical elements that are part of a counsellor’s daily routine:
- Client sessions – face to face, telephone-based or at other venues
- Review of files and chart notes
- Emergency calls
- Subject-related research
- Consulting with authorities, in cases such as employer of the client or authorities at school
- Insurance and administrative paperwork
- Joint meeting with other counsellors or professionals.
In addition to these daily types of activities, a counsellor will also make time for activities such as:
- Continuing education
- Professional development
- Professional organizations
- Seminars and workshops
- Academic research
- Teaching
- Working with student or intern counsellors
It’s not a 9 to 5 job.
Counselling is a demanding profession, both personally and professionally, but it is also tremendously rewarding. Before deciding on a career in counselling, it is important to do an honest self-assessment to be sure that you’re willing and able to perform as a good counsellor.
Write down any difficulties you might have with any of these issues. And then think of ways you will be able to overcome them.
