English Reference

Word

counseling

Phoneticscoun·sel·ing, stress on the first syllable

/ˈkaʊnsəɫɪŋ/

UK spelling · counselling

Uncountable noun Psychology

Definition

n. professional advice and support to help you deal with personal problems or difficult feelings.

n. professional guidance provided to individuals or groups to assist in the resolution of personal, social, or psychological challenges.

Examples

“She decided to go to counseling to help with her stress.”

“The university offers free counseling services to students who are struggling with their mental health during exam season.”

“Effective grief counseling provides a safe environment for individuals to process loss at their own pace, facilitating the transition from acute distress to long-term emotional stability.”

Examples

simple

“She decided to go to counseling to help with her stress.”

contextual

“The university offers free counseling services to students who are struggling with their mental health during exam season.”

complex

“Effective grief counseling provides a safe environment for individuals to process loss at their own pace, facilitating the transition from acute distress to long-term emotional stability.”

Usage

Often used as an uncountable noun, though specific sessions can be countable.

Real-World Examples

“Primary care providers and community health workers visited emergency shelters to provide counseling and ensure people had access to their medications.”
The Conversation 18 Aug 2026
“In Australia, the national family violence counselling service is on 1800 737 732.”
The Guardian 23 Aug 2026

Synonyms

therapyguidancesupport

Word family

NOUN

counseling(B2)

Domain

Psychology

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference