Navigating Career Change:
A Counselor’s Perspective
By Stephanie A. Onkst, M. Ed., NCC, LPC, Doctoral Candidate | Published: May 15, 2025
Changing careers is one of the most significant transitions a person can undertake.
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As a counselor who specializes in career transitions, I have witnessed firsthand the emotional, psychological, and logistical challenges that individuals face during this process. While the reasons for career change vary—burnout, the pursuit of passion, financial necessity, or personal growth—the journey requires resilience, self-reflection, and strategic planning.
Understanding the Need for Change Career change is often sparked by dissatisfaction, but it is rarely an impulsive decision. Many individuals experience a gradual realization that their current job no longer fulfills them. This realization may stem from various factors such as workplace culture, job monotony, lack of advancement opportunities, or misalignment with personal values. In counseling sessions, I encourage clients to explore the root cause of their dissatisfaction. Is it the industry, the specific role, or external pressures? Identifying the exact pain points helps in making informed decisions rather than reactive ones.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Career Change
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One of the most overlooked aspects of career transition is the emotional toll it takes. The fear of the unknown, self-doubt, and anxiety about financial stability can be overwhelming. Clients often grapple with imposter syndrome, questioning whether they are truly capable of succeeding in a new field. Addressing these emotions through counseling allows individuals to build confidence and develop a growth mindset. Additionally, career change is accompanied by a sense of loss. Leaving a long-term career can feel like abandoning a part of one’s identity. Many people have spent years cultivating professional reputations and forming relationships in their industries. Acknowledging and validating this loss is an essential step in moving forward with clarity and optimism.
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The Role of Self-Assessment
Before making a leap into a new career, self-assessment is crucial. I often guide clients through exercises such as:
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I provide personalized mental health strategies to help individuals navigate career changes with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
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Practical Steps in Career Transition
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Once a client has gained clarity about their career direction, the next step is to develop a concrete plan.
This involves:
- 1Research and Exploration: Before committing to a new career, it is essential to gather information. This may include informational interviews with professionals in the desired field, attending industry events, or engaging in job shadowing opportunities.
- 2
Education and Skill Development: Some career changes require additional education, certifications, or training. Online courses, workshops, or mentorship programs can bridge the knowledge gap without requiring a full degree.
- 3
Networking and Building Connections: The power of networking cannot be overstated. Encouraging clients to leverage LinkedIn, attend industry meetups, and connect with alumni or professional groups can open doors to opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
- 4
Gaining Experience: If possible, taking on freelance work, volunteering, or part-time roles in the new field can provide valuable experience and credibility.
- 5
Strategic Job Applications: Career changers often struggle with how to present their previous experience in a way that is relevant to a new field. I assist clients in tailoring their resumes and cover letters to highlight transferable skills and frame their past experiences in a way that appeals to prospective employers.
This holistic counseling approach fosters not only career growth but also mentally resilient individuals who carry these skills into every stage of life.
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Overcoming Common Barriers
While career change is exciting, it also comes with obstacles. Some common barriers include:
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Navigating a career change isn’t just a logistical shift — it’s an emotional and mental journey as well. At Mount North, we help clients work through the fears, pressures, and uncertainties that often come with career transitions. With personalized strategies and ongoing support, individuals can turn these barriers into stepping stones toward a more fulfilling and aligned professional life.
We strive for diversity across the globe
We strive for diversity across the globe
Success Stories and Lessons Learned
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I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds who have successfully transitioned into new careers.
One client, a former corporate lawyer, transitioned into nonprofit management after realizing her passion for social justice.
Another, an IT professional, pursued a career in teaching after years of feeling unfulfilled in the tech industry.
These individuals faced numerous challenges but emerged with careers that aligned with their values and aspirations. A common lesson from successful career changers is the importance of perseverance. The process is rarely linear, and setbacks are normal. However, with patience, resilience, and strategic planning, a fulfilling career shift is attainable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Careers
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Q: How do I know it’s time to change careers?
A: If you feel chronically unfulfilled, burned out, or disconnected from your work, it may be time to consider a career shift. A counselor can help you explore the root cause and whether a change is the right next step.
Q: Is it too late to switch careers later in life?
A: Absolutely not. Many people make successful career transitions in their 40s, 50s, or beyond. Your experience, wisdom, and adaptability are valuable assets.
Q: What if I don’t know what I want to do next?
A: That’s okay — it’s common. Through self-assessments, values exploration, and career mapping, a counselor can help you gain clarity and direction.
Q: How can counseling help with a career transition?
A: Career counseling provides emotional support, strategic guidance, and practical tools to navigate uncertainty and move forward with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Career change is more than just switching jobs—it is an opportunity for reinvention and self-discovery. As a counselor, my role is to help individuals navigate this transition with clarity, confidence, and a sense of purpose. While the journey can be daunting, those who embrace the process often find themselves in careers that bring them greater satisfaction and fulfillment than they ever imagined.
If you are considering a career change, remember that you are not alone. With the right mindset, resources, and support system, you can successfully transition into a career that aligns with your skills, passions, and values. The road may be uncertain, but the destination is well worth the effort.
Take the Next Step Toward a More Fulfilling Career
At Mount North, we specialize in supporting professionals through career transitions. Whether you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or ready to explore something new, our personalized counseling strategies can help you gain clarity, build confidence, and move forward with purpose. Let’s create a career path that aligns with who you are today—and who you want to become.
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