Counseling Psychology Jobs & Career Guide 2025
What is a Counseling Psychologist?
A counseling psychologist is a professional who specializes in facilitating personal and interpersonal functioning across the lifespan.
They focus on emotional, social, vocational, educational, health-related, developmental, and organizational concerns.
Counseling psychologists use a variety of techniques and interventions to help individuals cope with issues such as anxiety, stress, and life transitions, and to improve their clients’ well-being and functioning.
They often work in diverse settings such as private practices, hospitals, schools, and community agencies.
Their approach is generally more holistic and client-centered, emphasizing a supportive and growth-oriented framework rather than treating psychopathological disorders.

Where Does a Counseling Psychologist Work?
Counseling Psychologists work just about anywhere there are people in need. Frequently, they are found working in either private or group practices, however there are a variety of settings which employ counseling psychologists:
- Private practice: Many counseling psychologists work in private practice, either as sole practitioners or as part of a group practice.
- Mental health clinics: providing a range of services to individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues. In these settings, they may work as part of a team that includes psychiatrists, social workers, and other mental health professionals.
- Hospitals: Some counseling psychologists work in hospitals, where they may provide therapy to patients who are dealing with acute or chronic medical conditions.
- Schools and universities: providing individual or group counseling to students, as well as consultation services to teachers and other school personnel.
- Government agencies e.g. Veterans Administration, Department of Defense or the Department of Health and Human Services: counsel active military or veterans, often assisting them with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dealing with loss, transitioning to civilian life, or depression.

How Much Does a Counseling Psychologist Earn?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average salary is $81,000 in traditional settings. Many practitioners work in private practice where there are opportunities to earn more.
Geographic location and level of degree factor prominently in income potential with urban counseling and doctorate degrees in higher demand. Experience is a significant element in determining compensation.
