Mental health education
What Is Professional Counseling?
Understanding how counseling works — and how it can help you live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
"Counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education and career goals."
— American Counseling Association
What does a professional counselor do?
Professional counselors help people gain personal insights, develop strategies and come up with real-life solutions to the problems and challenges they face in every area of life.
What to expect when working with a counselor
All professional counselors share three core commitments — regardless of their specialty or the setting where they work.
A client-centered approach
Your counselor's first goal is to get to know you — your hobbies, relationships, work, and all areas of your life. Through a safe, non-judgmental environment and active listening, counselors help you explore what's troubling you and develop insight to identify the root of your challenges.
A wellness-based philosophy
Counselors are committed to helping you achieve wellness in every area of your life. Whether you are struggling with life's adversities or looking to live a better life, your counselor will approach treatment with your mental, physical and spiritual wellness in mind.
Ethical and culturally inclusive practice
Professional counselors are committed to ensuring that every person who seeks counseling receives ethical, culturally inclusive service. They consider your unique culture and experiences to see your challenges from your perspective, following the ACA Code of Ethics.
How are professional counselors trained?
Professional counselors are graduate-level mental health service providers, trained to work with individuals, families and groups in treating mental, behavioral, and emotional problems and disorders.
They hold a master's degree or higher from a counseling program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) — an independent agency endorsed by the American Counseling Association.
Professional counselors have also obtained appropriate state licenses to practice where they reside, ensuring they meet rigorous standards of competence and ethics.
Master's degree or higher
From a CACREP-accredited counseling program
State licensure
Licensed to practice in their state of residence
Evidence-based practice
Trained in research-backed therapeutic approaches
Ongoing ethics training
Committed to the ACA Code of Ethics
Frequently asked questions
Considering counseling but not sure if it's right for you? These answers may help.
Ready to take the first step?
Rich Stapleton is a licensed professional counselor serving clients in Iowa, Colorado, Minnesota and Florida. Schedule a session or reach out with any questions.