Meaning and Definitions of Counselling
Definitions of Counselling: Counselling is a central and essential component of any guidance programme. In everyday conversation, people may use the term “counselling” loosely, but its professional meaning is far more precise. To understand the concept clearly, it is helpful to examine several well-known definitions.
A widely accepted definition describes individual counselling as a personal, face-to-face interaction in which a counsellor uses professional skills to create a learning environment. In this environment, the counselee—a typical individual dealing with everyday issues—is supported in understanding who they are, their current situation, and their future possibilities. Through this process, the person learns to use their abilities in a meaningful way that benefits both themselves and society, while also gaining the skills to solve future problems (Tolbert, 1972).
According to Blackham (1977), counselling is a special type of helping relationship where the client has the freedom to learn, reflect, experience, and change in ways they consider meaningful.
Shertzer and Stone (1974) view counselling as an interactive process that enables individuals to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their surroundings. This process leads to the formation or clarification of personal goals and values that guide future action.
Cottle and Downie (1970) define counselling as the process through which a counsellor helps a client understand and accept information about themselves and their interactions with others. This self-understanding supports effective decision-making in various areas of life.
Stefflre and Grant (1972) describe counselling as a professional relationship, usually one-on-one, between a trained counsellor and a client. The purpose of this relationship is to help the client make sense of their experiences and life space so they can make informed and meaningful choices. Their definition emphasizes that counselling involves learning, personal development, self-awareness, and improved role functioning.
In 2010, the American Counseling Association adopted a unified definition agreed upon by most participating organizations:
Counselling is a professional relationship that empowers individuals, families, and groups to achieve mental health, wellness, educational success, and career development (Kaplan, 2014, p. 366).
Bor (2002) describes counselling as a therapeutic interaction that focuses on conversations about beliefs, behaviors, relationships, and feelings. Through such dialogue, the child or client gains clarity about the problem, reframes it if necessary, and generates new, meaningful solutions.
According to the British Association for Counselling (1991), counselling involves the skilled and ethical use of a helping relationship to support self-awareness, emotional acceptance, personal growth, and the development of inner resources. The ultimate aim is to help individuals live more effectively and with greater satisfaction.
Summary
Across all definitions, a common theme emerges: counselling is fundamentally a relationship. It is a purposeful, supportive connection between a trained counsellor and an individual seeking assistance. This relationship is not formal or impersonal; rather, it is built on warmth, trust, acceptance, and genuine understanding.
