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Counselors, All Other

SOC 21-1019.00Job Zone —v.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers counseling practice in community mental health, substance use recovery, and social service settings requiring associate-degree or vocational preparation and 1–2 years of on-the-job experience.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Client intake forms and basic case records — complete accurately under supervisor guidance in a community counseling setting.
  2. Session notes and progress reports — draft using standard templates with direct oversight from a licensed counselor.
  3. Active listening techniques — apply during initial client interviews to identify presenting concerns in a structured intake environment.
  4. Basic psychological and counseling terminology — recognize and use correctly when communicating with supervisors and interdisciplinary staff.
  5. Urine sample collection procedures — follow established protocols under supervision to support drug dependency screening.
  6. Individual client sessions — assist a licensed counselor in delivering structured support activities within a group home or outpatient clinic.
  7. Electronic mail and office suite software — use to schedule appointments and route client correspondence in a community services office.
  8. Client confidentiality and HIPAA requirements — demonstrate awareness of and adherence to during all record-handling tasks.
  9. Behavioral and emotional cues — identify in clients and report observations to supervising counselors during case review meetings.
  10. Service orientation principles — apply by responding respectfully and promptly to client needs under direct professional supervision.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Client case histories and progress records — maintain and update with reduced oversight using electronic records systems in an outpatient facility.
  2. Individual and small-group counseling sessions — facilitate independently to help clients address dependency issues or life adjustment challenges.
  3. Drug dependency assessment data — collect and analyze urine samples and document findings in accordance with facility protocols.
  4. Treatment plans — contribute to development by applying knowledge of psychology and counseling theory within a structured clinical workflow.
  5. Discharged client follow-up contacts — conduct at scheduled intervals to track progress and assess treatment effectiveness.
  6. Critical thinking skills — apply when evaluating client responses to interventions and adjusting session approaches in familiar counseling contexts.
  7. Written progress summaries and referral documents — compose clearly using word processing software for interdisciplinary team review.
  8. Social perceptiveness — exercise to detect shifts in client motivation or emotional state and respond with appropriate counseling strategies.
  9. Community resource information — identify and communicate relevant referral options to clients navigating substance use or psychosocial challenges.
  10. Spreadsheet software — use to track caseload data, appointment attendance, and outcome metrics across an assigned client roster.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex client cases involving co-occurring disorders — assess and manage autonomously, integrating psychology and counseling knowledge in a community mental health setting.
  2. Comprehensive case records and clinical documentation — produce and audit to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance across a full caseload.
  3. Group counseling programs — design and lead independently to address dependency recovery, coping skills, or social adjustment for diverse client populations.
  4. Urine analysis results and dependency severity indicators — interpret and integrate into individualized treatment recommendations without supervisory review.
  5. Post-discharge follow-up programs — implement systematically and evaluate outcomes to inform continuous improvement of counseling services.
  6. Judgment and decision-making skills — exercise in high-stakes situations such as crisis intervention or mandatory reporting within an outpatient or residential facility.
  7. Multidisciplinary case conferences — participate in and lead by presenting well-reasoned client assessments and treatment recommendations to clinical teams.
  8. Client reading comprehension and literacy barriers — identify and adapt written materials and verbal communication to improve service accessibility.
  9. Presentation software — use to develop and deliver psychoeducational content for clients and community stakeholders on dependency and mental health topics.
  10. Ethical and professional standards — uphold independently across all counseling, documentation, and referral activities in compliance with state licensure requirements.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Counseling program frameworks and service delivery models — design and implement at organizational scale to meet community mental health and dependency recovery needs.
  2. Clinical supervision and mentorship — provide to emerging and developing counselors, shaping professional practice standards across the department.
  3. Outcome measurement systems — establish and oversee using data from discharge follow-up and caseload records to guide evidence-based program improvements.
  4. Organizational policies for client documentation and records management — develop and enforce to ensure regulatory compliance and quality assurance across the facility.
  5. Interdisciplinary collaboration — lead across social work, medical, and administrative teams to coordinate comprehensive care for high-complexity client populations.
  6. Staff training curricula — create and deliver on counseling techniques, cultural competency, and ethics for new and continuing counselors in the organization.
  7. Strategic partnerships with community agencies — cultivate and maintain to expand referral networks and resource access for underserved client groups.
  8. Quality improvement initiatives — champion by analyzing aggregated client outcome and dependency assessment data to drive organizational learning.
  9. Departmental budget and resource allocation — oversee to sustain counseling program capacity and staffing levels aligned with community service demands.
  10. Professional and ethical culture — model and reinforce organization-wide through policy leadership, peer accountability structures, and public representation of the counseling profession.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic session documentation — uses AI writing tools to draft initial case notes and progress summaries from handwritten session observations, reviewing all output before filing Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Client history intake — directs an AI tool to organize and cross-reference intake forms and background records into a structured summary, then verifies accuracy against source documents before clinical use Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Treatment resource identification — queries AI assistants to surface relevant community resources, referral options, and evidence-based intervention frameworks, applying professional judgment to assess fit for each client's situation WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Progress tracking synthesis — instructs an AI tool to compile longitudinal session notes and outcome data into trend reports for discharged clients, then interprets patterns to inform follow-up decisions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Active listening support — integrates AI-generated session transcripts or summaries as a secondary reference, while retaining full ownership of the relational and perceptual dimensions of client interaction that automation cannot replicate Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Documentation compliance — uses AI tools to flag incomplete fields, inconsistent terminology, or missing required elements in clinical records, then applies counselor judgment to resolve each discrepancy before submission.
Advanced
  1. Human-technology workflow design — architects AI-assisted documentation and follow-up protocols for a counseling team, calibrating which tasks are delegated to AI tools versus reserved for direct human judgment, given the Q2 augmented profile of core counseling skills Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Outcome data evaluation — directs AI systems to perform aggregate analysis of treatment effectiveness across a caseload, then synthesizes findings to inform program-level decisions while critically assessing AI-generated conclusions for bias or missing context Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Ethical oversight of AI use — establishes and enforces team standards for appropriate AI involvement in sensitive client interactions, ensuring that social perceptiveness, emotional attunement, and confidentiality obligations remain exclusively human responsibilities WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication13 statements
Emerging
  1. Client intake communication — gathers basic demographic and presenting concern information through structured interview using clear, accessible language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Session documentation — records client session notes using standard clinical formats with guidance from supervisors O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Group session participation — listens attentively and reflects back client statements during facilitated group counseling sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Therapeutic dialogue — elicits detailed psychosocial history and dependency patterns through open-ended questioning during individual counseling sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Progress report writing — composes accurate, structured progress notes and treatment summaries that capture client change over time O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Psychoeducation delivery — explains dependency concepts, coping strategies, and treatment options to clients using plain, non-stigmatizing language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-audience communication — adapts counseling language, tone, and complexity for diverse client populations including varying literacy levels, cultural backgrounds, and stages of change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interdisciplinary case communication — presents client progress and clinical concerns clearly in team meetings, referral letters, and discharge summaries O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis communication — conveys safety protocols and de-escalation guidance to clients in acute distress using calm, directive language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Collateral coordination — communicates treatment progress and recommendations to family members, courts, or referring agencies within appropriate confidentiality boundaries O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Consultation leadership — articulates complex case conceptualizations and differential assessments to multidisciplinary teams, advocating effectively for client needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Programmatic documentation — develops templates, intake protocols, and reporting frameworks that improve documentation consistency across the counseling team O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Community communication — presents counseling services, prevention information, and program outcomes to community stakeholders and funding bodies with clarity and credibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership11 statements
Emerging
  1. Group co-facilitation — assists lead counselor in structuring group sessions, observing group dynamics, and supporting participation from quieter members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-directed caseload initiation — takes ownership of an assigned client caseload with supervisor oversight and seeks guidance proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Group facilitation — leads structured counseling groups independently, establishing norms, managing conflict, and guiding therapeutic discussion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Treatment planning leadership — drives the development and revision of individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients and care team members O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer guidance — shares clinical insights and best practices with newer counselors during case consultations or team meetings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Caseload management leadership — independently prioritizes, monitors, and adjusts services across a full caseload of clients at varying stages of treatment O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interdisciplinary coordination — takes initiative in organizing referrals, collaborating with medical or social service providers, and ensuring continuity of care for clients O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis response leadership — assumes primary decision-making responsibility during client crises, coordinating appropriate interventions and notifying relevant parties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program development — leads the design and implementation of new counseling programs, therapeutic curricula, or group modalities aligned with evidence-based practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Clinical mentorship — supervises and develops junior counselors or interns, modeling ethical practice, reflective supervision, and therapeutic technique Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Systems advocacy — champions policy changes or resource development within the organization or community to improve client access and treatment outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition11 statements
Emerging
  1. Reflective journaling — documents personal reactions to client sessions and identifies patterns in emotional responses with supervisor support Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning gap awareness — recognizes limits of current clinical knowledge and seeks training or consultation in unfamiliar presenting issues Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Countertransference monitoring — identifies personal biases and emotional reactions during sessions and adjusts therapeutic approach accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intervention evaluation — reflects after sessions to assess whether chosen therapeutic techniques matched the client's readiness and presenting needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Supervision utilization — brings specific clinical questions and self-identified learning goals to supervision sessions rather than relying solely on supervisor direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Clinical self-calibration — continuously monitors personal assumptions, theoretical preferences, and blind spots across diverse client presentations and adjusts practice accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Treatment strategy review — systematically evaluates own treatment decisions by comparing client progress data against planned outcomes and modifying approach when progress stalls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional development planning — designs intentional continuing education pathways based on honest self-assessment of competency gaps in areas such as trauma, addiction, or multicultural counseling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive modeling — teaches clients to observe their own thought patterns and cognitive distortions as a core therapeutic skill within cognitive-behavioral or similar modalities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Reflective practice leadership — guides team reflective practice sessions, helping colleagues develop self-monitoring habits that strengthen clinical outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Research-to-practice integration — critically evaluates emerging counseling literature, reflects on its applicability to personal practice, and integrates relevant findings intentionally Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking11 statements
Emerging
  1. Assessment interpretation — identifies presenting concerns by reviewing intake information and applying basic psychological concepts under supervisor guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Differential awareness — recognizes when a client's symptoms may indicate co-occurring conditions requiring additional assessment or referral O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Biopsychosocial analysis — synthesizes client history, environmental stressors, and psychological factors to form a comprehensive case conceptualization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Dependency assessment — collects and interprets urinalysis data and behavioral indicators to assess the degree and nature of substance dependency O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Evidence evaluation — compares therapeutic modalities against available evidence and client characteristics to select the most appropriate intervention approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment efficacy judgment — analyzes client progress data, session patterns, and outcome measures to determine whether current treatment is effective or requires modification Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Risk assessment — evaluates suicidality, relapse risk, or harm to others by systematically weighing multiple clinical indicators and contextual factors O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Ethical reasoning — applies professional codes of ethics and agency policy to resolve ambiguous situations involving dual relationships, confidentiality, or mandated reporting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex case analysis — formulates nuanced clinical hypotheses for clients with multiple co-occurring disorders, trauma histories, and social determinants of health that intersect in nonlinear ways Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Program evaluation reasoning — critically analyzes service utilization data and client outcome trends to identify systemic treatment gaps and recommend evidence-based program adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer case consultation — challenges colleagues' clinical assumptions constructively during case conferences, offering alternative conceptualizations grounded in psychological and sociological theory Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration11 statements
Emerging
  1. Team participation — contributes to case review meetings by sharing basic client observations and listening actively to clinical input from colleagues Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Referral coordination — assists in connecting clients to external services by communicating with referral sources under supervisor direction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Care team integration — collaborates with medical providers, social workers, and case managers to align treatment goals and avoid service duplication O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client-centered partnership — develops treatment plans in genuine collaboration with clients, incorporating their goals, strengths, and cultural values Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer consultation engagement — actively seeks and contributes to peer consultation on challenging cases, sharing observations and receiving feedback constructively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Interdisciplinary case coordination — maintains ongoing communication with physicians, probation officers, school counselors, and family systems to ensure coordinated, wraparound care O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Group co-facilitation collaboration — co-leads therapeutic groups with another counselor, negotiating facilitation roles, debriefing after sessions, and maintaining unified therapeutic approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community partnership building — builds working relationships with community organizations, shelters, and treatment facilities to strengthen the network of support available to clients O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systems-level collaboration — partners with administrators, funders, and policy stakeholders to develop collaborative service models that expand access to counseling across underserved populations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-disciplinary training — designs and leads joint training initiatives with partner agencies to build shared language, referral protocols, and collaborative care competencies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Collaborative research participation — partners with academic or agency research teams to contribute practice-based evidence while maintaining client confidentiality and ethical standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character11 statements
Emerging
  1. Confidentiality adherence — maintains client privacy by following HIPAA and agency confidentiality policies in all verbal, written, and digital communications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Punctuality and reliability — consistently fulfills scheduled client appointments and documentation deadlines, demonstrating professional accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Ethical boundary maintenance — identifies and manages dual relationship risks, inappropriate self-disclosure, and scope-of-practice boundaries in day-to-day client work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Non-judgmental stance — engages clients with substance use, criminal history, or stigmatized behaviors with consistent dignity, respect, and absence of moral judgment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mandatory reporting accountability — identifies and acts on mandatory reporting obligations for child abuse, elder abuse, or imminent danger without hesitation or boundary confusion O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Culturally ethical practice — recognizes and corrects for cultural biases in assessment and treatment planning, ensuring equitable care across race, gender, religion, and socioeconomic status Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Transparent documentation — records client information accurately and honestly, resisting pressure to omit unfavorable data or overstate treatment progress in reports O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional accountability — acknowledges clinical errors or misjudgments openly in supervision, takes corrective action, and uses mistakes as learning opportunities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical leadership modeling — sets the professional tone of an entire team by consistently demonstrating integrity, boundary clarity, and equitable treatment of all clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethics consultation — guides colleagues through complex ethical dilemmas using principled reasoning, professional standards, and transparent decision-making processes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Advocacy integrity — challenges organizational practices or policies that compromise client dignity or ethical standards, doing so through appropriate professional channels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity11 statements
Emerging
  1. Individualized rapport-building — adapts conversational style, metaphors, or check-in activities to match a specific client's communication preferences and cultural background Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Resource adaptation — modifies standard psychoeducational materials to be more engaging or accessible for a particular client population Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Therapeutic technique adaptation — selects and modifies evidence-based interventions creatively to fit clients who have not responded to standard approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Group activity design — develops original structured activities, role-play scenarios, or discussion prompts that deepen therapeutic engagement in group counseling sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Motivational strategy innovation — generates novel motivational interviewing prompts, goal visualization exercises, or behavioral experiments tailored to ambivalent clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Individualized treatment innovation — designs non-standard treatment pathways for clients with complex needs, drawing on multiple theoretical frameworks and creative integration of modalities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client-driven intervention co-creation — collaborates with clients to invent personalized coping strategies, rituals, or relapse prevention plans that reflect their unique strengths and identity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Program curriculum design — creates original psychoeducational curricula for specialized populations such as adolescents, veterans, or court-mandated clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Innovative service model development — conceptualizes and pilots new counseling delivery formats, such as community-embedded, peer-supported, or technology-assisted counseling models Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative outcome measurement — develops novel qualitative assessment tools or narrative-based progress measures that capture dimensions of wellbeing not addressed by standard instruments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Translational creativity — transforms complex psychological research into accessible, creative public health messaging or community workshops that resonate with diverse lay audiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset11 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts corrective feedback from supervisors during case consultation without defensiveness and applies it in subsequent sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training engagement — participates actively in required continuing education and views new clinical requirements as development opportunities rather than burdens Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Challenging caseload acceptance — accepts clients with complex presentations, treatment resistance, or histories of relapse as opportunities to expand clinical skill rather than reasons to refer out Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-session learning — after sessions that did not go as planned, identifies specific skill gaps and seeks targeted resources or practice to improve Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Supervision openness — brings moments of clinical uncertainty or failure to supervision proactively, viewing vulnerability as a growth catalyst Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Skill expansion commitment — pursues specialized training in emerging areas such as trauma-informed care, EMDR, or cultural humility in response to evolving client population needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Relapse reframing — helps clients reframe relapses or setbacks as data points in their recovery journey rather than evidence of failure, modeling a growth-oriented perspective Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Treatment resistance persistence — maintains therapeutic optimism and adjusts strategies repeatedly when clients disengage, rather than attributing lack of progress solely to client motivation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational learning leadership — champions a team culture where clinical mistakes are examined openly, lessons are shared broadly, and continuous improvement is normalized Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Research and practice evolution — stays at the forefront of counseling research, integrates emerging evidence into practice, and disseminates learning through presentations or publications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship through growth modeling — demonstrates personal learning agility visibly to supervisees, normalizing ongoing development at all career stages and inspiring similar commitment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness11 statements
Emerging
  1. Session presence — maintains focused attention on the client during sessions by minimizing distractions and returning attention to the present moment when it wanders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional check-in — briefly assesses own emotional state before entering a session to prevent unprocessed affect from influencing therapeutic stance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Therapeutic attunement — notices subtle shifts in client affect, body language, and pacing in real time and responds with calibrated empathic reflection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress regulation practice — applies personal mindfulness or self-regulation strategies to prevent cumulative compassion fatigue from impairing clinical judgment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional silence use — employs deliberate pauses and silence during sessions as therapeutic tools, tolerating discomfort without rushing to fill the space Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Triggered countertransference management — detects personal emotional activation during difficult client disclosures and regulates internal response without rupturing therapeutic alliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mindfulness-based intervention delivery — introduces mindfulness exercises such as grounding techniques, breath awareness, or body scans as therapeutic tools calibrated to client readiness and presenting issue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Compassion fatigue prevention — monitors cumulative emotional load across caseload systematically and engages in deliberate self-care and supervision to maintain sustainable practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindfulness curriculum integration — designs and delivers structured mindfulness-based components within counseling programs, such as Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention, with fidelity and clinical sensitivity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team mindfulness cultivation — introduces mindful check-in practices, reflective pauses, or trauma-informed team protocols that build collective emotional regulation capacity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Presence modeling — demonstrates sustained present-moment awareness across high-complexity sessions, modeling for clients and trainees what regulated, intentional engagement looks like Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude11 statements
Emerging
  1. High-distress tolerance — remains present and functional when clients disclose trauma, suicidal ideation, or severe relapse without withdrawing emotionally or clinically Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Workload persistence — maintains consistent documentation and caseload responsibilities during high-demand periods without compromising quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Therapeutic alliance repair — reengages with clients who have missed sessions, expressed hostility, or disengaged from treatment, persisting through relational ruptures with patience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ambiguity endurance — continues providing competent counseling services when diagnostic clarity, treatment direction, or client prognosis remains uncertain Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Vicarious trauma resilience — recognizes and addresses the cumulative impact of repeated exposure to client trauma narratives through active self-monitoring and support-seeking Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Long-term client commitment — maintains therapeutic optimism and consistent engagement with clients in extended treatment who show slow or nonlinear progress over months or years Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic barrier navigation — persists in securing resources, referrals, and services for clients despite bureaucratic obstacles, funding gaps, or unresponsive systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Post-crisis recalibration — returns to effective clinical functioning after managing a client crisis, safety incident, or treatment failure without prolonged impairment to other caseload members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational resilience leadership — maintains professional stability and team morale during periods of agency restructuring, funding loss, or community crisis, modeling composure and purpose Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained advocacy courage — persists in advocating for underserved or stigmatized client populations in the face of institutional resistance, public misunderstanding, or political opposition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship through adversity — shares personal accounts of professional difficulty, compassion fatigue, and recovery with supervisees in ways that normalize struggle and build the next generation's resilience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Adoption Counselor · AIDS Counselor · Anger Control Counselor · Behavior Specialist · Business Representative · Career Development Specialist · Career Manager · Career Specialist · Case Consultant · Case Investigator · Case Manager · Case Reviewer
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingSocial PerceptivenessReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingService OrientationWritingJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge domains
PsychologyTherapy and CounselingCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingSociology and AnthropologyAdministrativeAdministration and Management
Abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionSpeech ClarityWritten ComprehensionWritten ExpressionProblem Sensitivity
Work styles
EmpathyDependabilityCooperationSinceritySocial OrientationIntegrity
Technology
Spreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwarePresentation softwareWord processing softwareGraphics or photo imaging software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patients' histories and progress, services pro
  2. Counsel clients or patients, individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjustin
  3. Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.
  4. Follow progress of discharged patients to determine effectiveness of treatments.
CIP education codes
30.530139.070139.079942.280344.070151.150651.151052.1006

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.