Directive and non-directive counselling are the major types in counselling, with eclectic counselling being the third type.

Both terms generally refer to the same service offered by mental health professionals like licensed counselors, therapists, psychologists or social workers. However, counselling with two Ls is considered the UK English form of the word, while counseling is considered by many to be the American English version.

Individual counseling may encompass career counseling and planning, grief after a loved one dies or dealing with problems at a job before they become big. Individual counseling is a one-on-one discussion between the counselor and the client, who is the person seeking treatment.

Interpretation: Counselors should be able to interpret vague information that a client shares and place it within the context of what they are going through. Phrases like "I'm just so tired," or "I'm on edge all the time," constitute further information, and it is up to the counselor to interpret this information.