The ability to remain objective and non-judgmental is a key attribute for anyone considering a career in the field of counseling. According to vcsu.edu, counselors do not attempt to "fix" people's problems outright. Instead, they ask questions and offer observations that help their clients gain "new perspectives" on their issues and concerns. To become a counselor, graduates usually require a master's degree and a state license, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said. Qualified professionals work in a variety of areas, helping people to deal with personal, family, educational, mental health and career problems. For example, educational and school counselors provide individual and groups of students with guidance on academics, jobs, personal issues and social development, while employment or vocational counselors offer feedback and advice on training, skills and career goals. Other common areas in which counselors practice include marriage and family relationships, rehabilitation and behavioral disorders. In 2006, there were 635,000 counseling jobs in the United States. Some 47% of these posts were in the health care and social assistance industry.  |