How to Become a Career Counsellor in India: A Step-by-Step Guide

Remember when career options were limited to becoming a doctor, engineer, or teacher?

That world doesn't exist anymore.

Today's job market is dynamic, digital, and driven by passion. From climate change analysts to content creators, AI trainers to UX designers, careers have evolved, and so have the people guiding them.

That's where career counsellors come in, as every student ha s questions. Every professional has crossroads. And behind every confident career decision, there's often a great counsellor.

If you naturally listen, support, and enjoy helping others find direction, career counselling might just be the calling you've been waiting for.

Who Can Become a Career Counsellor?

• Graduates from any stream

• Homemakers ready to restart their careers

• Teachers, HR professionals, and psychology majors

• Even professionals from finance, IT, or sales who want to make a meaningful switch

This is one of the best career options in India for women who want to earn on their own terms and build something meaningful. You can take up part-time opportunities, freelance assignments, or even build your own counselling practice.

All you need is a genuine interest in guiding others and the willingness to upskill.

What Do You Need to Start?

You don't need a master's degree or 10 years of experience. What you do need is:

✅ A genuine interest in guiding others

✅ A desire to upskill

✅ The ability to empathize and communicate clearly

Best Career Counselling Certification Courses in India (2025)

Here are some of the top, trusted certification programs to kickstart your journey:

1. Global Career Counsellor by Univariety + UCLA Extension

• A globally recognized, self-paced online course

• Backed by Univariety (India) and UCLA (USA)

• Includes a huge resource library, case studies, and mentoring support
  👉 Explore Course
   

2. Certified Career Analyst by Edumilestones

• Best for psychology-backed career counselling

• Includes access to AI-driven career assessment tools

• Offers business support if you want to start your own counselling service
  👉 Explore Course

3. International Certified Career Coach (ICCC) by Mindler

• Endorsed by NCDA (USA)

• Ideal for educators and career switchers

• Offers community access and tools to build a personal brand
  👉 Explore Course

4. TCS iON Career Counselling Certification

• Offered by TCS (Tata Consultancy Services)

• Government-recognised digital certificate

• Great choice for beginners with a limited budget
  👉 Explore Course

5. Diploma in Career & Education Counselling by IISDT

• Affordable, self-paced, and recognized by MSME Govt. of India

• Suitable for homemakers or women looking for low-cost entry
  👉 Explore Course

💻 Where to Work as a Career Counsellor?

As a certified counsellor, you can explore several options through online career guidance platforms or build your own consultancy:

• Schools & Colleges – in-house or freelance

• EdTech Platforms – offer free career counselling or paid guidance remotely

• Start Your Own Practice – build a brand via social media

• Corporates – guide internal role transitions

• NGOs & Nonprofits – counsel underserved communities
   

Free Online Courses to Build Your Foundation

If you're just getting started, explore these free career counselling resources to get a taste:

• SWAYAM (Govt of India): Psychology, communication, counselling courses.

• Coursera & edX: Offers free counselling and career development modules (audit mode).

• Glow & Lovely Free Online Courses: A go-to platform for online career guidance, upskilling, and free career counselling for women. GAL helps you discover your potential, take a free career assessment test, and explore the right career options in India for women.

Final Thoughts

Career counselling isn't just a job. It’s a service. A purpose. A chance to change someone's future while shaping your own. No matter what direction you choose, this is a career that grows with you.

You don't need to be a psychologist to guide someone's career. You just need the right training and the heart to listen.

Join the Glow and Lovely Careers community on SHEROES.