Post graduate training. A master's degree in Psychology, Counseling or Social Work. And passing a Licensure Exam given by the State Board. The state also requires counselors and psychologists to obtain ongoing education to keep abreast of new advances in the field and to maintain a level of professionalism as it relates to skills and compentencies. Some therapists go on to get a doctorate, this is especially necessary if one wants to educate others in the field.

Often counselors assist their clients in exploring their feelings, clarifying goals, improve their relationships and work toward making healthy changes in their lives.

An individual may contract with a counselor to address a problem that they've been unable to resolve on their own. It could be about their career, their family relations or their relationships with others in any context. One could be motivated by a dissatisfaction with their life in general.