If you're in Class 12 or have just passed out, this blog will help you understand how to start a career in counselling after 12th what courses to take, what skills are needed, and the career opportunities available.
Making a genuine impact in people's lives is what it means to pursue a career in counseling. Counselors assist people in managing emotional suffering, relationship problems, job uncertainties, stress, and worry.
How to Start a Career in Counselling After 12th: Step by Step
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Choose the Right Stream | After Class 12, opting for Humanities with Psychology is ideal, but students from any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts) can pursue counselling. |
| 2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree | Enrol in a graduation course related to Psychology, Social Work, or Human Development. B.A. Psychology is one of the most popular choices. |
| 3. Gain Relevant Experience | Internships, volunteer work, or working with NGOs during graduation helps build practical experience. |
| 4. Pursue a Master’s Degree | A master’s degree in Psychology, Counselling, or Clinical Psychology is often essential to become a licensed or certified counsellor. |
| 5. Get Certified | Additional certifications in areas like Career Counselling, School Counselling, or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can boost your credibility. |
| 6. Start Practising | Begin your career in schools, colleges, NGOs, hospitals, or private practice, depending on your area of interest. |
To assist you begin a career in counseling, the following are some of the top undergraduate and graduate programs:
| Course Name | Level | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.A. in Psychology | UG | 3 years | 12th pass from any stream |
| B.Sc. in Psychology | UG | 3 years | 12th pass (Science preferred) |
| Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) | UG | 3 years | 12th pass |
| M.A. in Counselling Psychology | PG | 2 years | Graduation in Psychology or related field |
| M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology | PG | 2 years | B.A./B.Sc. in Psychology |
| Post Graduate Diploma in Guidance and Counselling | PG Diploma | 1 year | Graduation in any discipline |
To be successful in this area, you need more than simply a degree. When considering how to begin a profession in counseling, the following are essential abilities to have:
- Strong Communication Skills
- Active Listening
- Empathy and Patience
- Problem-solving Ability
- Emotional Intelligence
- Ethical and Non-judgmental Approach
- Time Management
- Report Writing and Documentation
Counselling is a wide and growing field. Once you understand how to start a career in counselling, here are the possible areas you can work in:
| Counselling Field | Description |
|---|---|
| School Counsellor | Help students deal with academic pressure, bullying, or career choices. |
| Career Counsellor | Guide students or professionals in choosing the right career path. |
| Mental Health Counsellor | Address emotional, behavioural, or psychological issues. |
| Marriage and Family Therapist | Work with couples or families to resolve conflicts. |
| Rehabilitation Counsellor | Assist individuals recovering from addiction or trauma. |
| Corporate Counsellor | Help employees manage stress, burnout, and workplace challenges. |
Counseling can be a rewarding career if you have a strong desire to help people, strong communication skills, and a keen interest in human behavior. You may plan ahead and lay a solid foundation if you know how to begin a profession in counseling after completing your 12th grade. The correct course and the right attitude are the first steps in any trip, whether your goal is to work in hospitals, schools, or even launch your own private practice.