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A counselor's work environment can vary greatly depending upon his or her occupational specialty. Guidance counselors work predominantly in schools, where they can have an office, but they may also work actively in classrooms. Some guidance counselors work in a private practice or maintain an independent advisor or consultant berth. Others may work in a community or state government organization. Career counselors usually work in an office where they see clients throughout the day. Because privacy is essential for frank discussions with clients, these counselors generally have private offices where they can confidentially discuss career options with their clients. Other career counselors work in state government offices such as the unemployment office, where they advise adults who are entering or re-entering the workforce or who may have been laid off and are looking for work.  Career and Guidance Counselor Work Schedule The work schedules of counselors depend on their occupational specialty and work setting. Some guidance counselors work the traditional nine- to 10-month school year with a two- to three-month vacation, but many are now more frequently employed on 11-month or full-year contracts—particularly those working in middle and high schools. They usually work the same hours as teachers, but they may travel more frequently to attend conferences and conventions. College career planning and placement counselors work long and irregular hours during student recruiting periods. Career counselors who are employed by a state, federal or private employment agency will tend to work a traditional 40-hour week and travel to career conventions may be a part of their job requirements. A career counselor in private practice may work less or more than the 40-hour standard, depending upon client load and whether or not they have structured their practice upon the 40-hour model. Their work may also carry over to home after business hours, where they could be required to do client paperwork or field phone calls in the case of an emergency.  Guidance/Career Counseling Home
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