You’ve probably arrived here because you’re feeling stuck in your career; wondering if you’re heading in the right direction; or feeling like you’re missing out on something better. There’s a good chance you’re feeling a little frustrated at work, wanting to plan a fresh start, or just trying to figure out where you fit in the world. Career counseling could be the key to making your next big move. That’s why in this post we’ll explore five ways career counseling can change your life this year—for the better. This might be just the sign you’ve been waiting for to take charge of your career.

Note: The information in this post is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for mental health care from a licensed provider. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency, call 988 or 911 for all other emergencies.

Nate Van Heuveln | Pre-Licensed Psychotherapist & Consultant | 12/22/2024

What Is Career Counseling? Understanding the Basics

Career counseling (also referred to as career coaching) is much more than just advice about jobs. At Criterion Counseling and Consulting, career counseling is a non-mental health service (even though the right job change can lead to better mental health outcomes in the long run). Career counseling is a process that helps you uncover your strengths, clarify your goals, and build a strategy to achieve them. For students, it might mean discovering the right career path. For adults, it’s often about rethinking priorities or navigating a significant career change.

Unlike high-school career counseling, which often provides generic advice, today’s career counseling is rooted in evidence-based tools. It’s an in-depth, collaborative process designed to help you find meaningful work aligned with your values, skills, preferences, and personality.

Who Needs Career Counseling? Identifying When It’s Time for Guidance

You might be asking yourself, who needs career counseling? The answer is simple: anyone looking to align their skills, values, preferences, and goals with meaningful work.

Career counseling is especially beneficial for:

• Career Counseling for Students and Young Adults: Explore potential careers and align your education with your goals.
• Career Counseling for Veterans: Transition to civilian careers with tailored strategies.
• Career Counseling for Experienced Adults Seeking Change: Navigate career shifts or overcome professional challenges.

In partnership with Fuller Living and Associates, Criterion Counseling and Consulting provides career counseling that meets you where you are and helps you take the next step no matter whether you’re starting from seeking your first job or working your way up the career ladder in your current professional occupation.

5 Reasons Why Career Counseling Can Help You This Year

1. Navigate Career Changes with Confidence

The job market is evolving rapidly. Career counselors and consultants stay updated on industry trends and guide you through this changing landscape.

2. Clarify Your Career Goals

Career counseling helps you define success on your own terms despite whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, switching fields, or wondering which college major is right for you.

3. Discover Hidden Job Opportunities

Counselors often have insights into opportunities you might not find on your own, which helps you to find opportunities you didn’t know existed, even within your current organization.

4. Build a Job-Search Strategy That Works

Career counseling equips you with tools to stand out in a competitive market, including enhancing your resume and interview skills.

5. Achieve Long-Term Fulfillment

It’s not just about getting a job; it’s about building a life and career that is meaningful, satisfying, and even gets you excited to show up again day after day.

Why Choose Career Counseling with Nate?

One of the reasons I’m so passionate about career counseling is because I’ve lived through the challenges of navigating diverse career paths myself. My own work experience ranges from a wide variety of jobs, experiences, which gave me a unique perspective and the ability to connect with people like you from all walks of life. My approach to career counseling combines this personal experience with evidence-based tools to help you achieve career success. This is why I, as the owner of Criterion Counseling and Consulting, contract with Fuller Living and Associates to provide career development services.

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Take Charge of Your Career Starting This Year

Your career is one of the most significant parts of your life. Your career shapes your opportunities, influences your well-being, and reflects what you have to offer the world. Career counseling can help you take charge of your professional path, clarify your goals, begin again, or look for other ways to move forward with confidence.

If you are you ready to explore what’s next for you, let’s consider working together to uncover your ideal career path and create a strategy to achieve it. We can meet for either in-person sessions in our St. Cloud, MN office or meet virtually. I’m here to help you.

Your future is calling. Contact me today to schedule a consultation, and don’t forget to subscribe to my Substack for deeper insights into career growth and success.

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