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Counseling

Counseling is professional guidance to help a person, family, or group of individuals recognize and deal with issues that are interfering with their mental well-being. Counseling involves regular meetings (sessions) with a qualified counselor, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, licensed professional counselor, or clinical social worker.

Counseling, which may also be called psychotherapy or therapy, can be done on an individual, family, or group basis.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Paul Lehnert
Editor Katy E. Magee, MA
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Catherine D. Serio, PhD - Behavioral Health
Specialist Medical Reviewer Peter Hauser, MD - Psychiatry
Specialist Medical Reviewer Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Last Updated March 13, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 13, 2009
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