counselor

word

/ˈkaʊnsəɫɝ/
KOWN-suh-lur
/ˈkaʊnsələ/
KOWN-suh-luh

Definition

A counselor is a person whose job is to give advice, guidance, or emotional support. It can refer to someone at a school, camp, or organization, or to a trained professional who helps people with personal or mental health problems.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for school and mental health contexts. In American English, 'counselor' is more common than British 'counsellor'. Depending on context, it may mean a school guidance professional, a camp staff member, or a therapist-like professional; it is broader than 'therapist' and less formal than 'psychologist'.

Example Sentences

The school counselor helped me choose my classes.

basic

She works as a camp counselor in the summer.

basic

If you're not sure what to do next, a counselor can really help.

natural

You should talk to the counselor before making a big decision.

natural

I talked to a counselor about my stress.

basic

My counselor gave me a few ways to manage anxiety.

natural