Since 9-11, people everywhere find themselves questioning the meaning of life and how their work fits into the big picture. Workers realize that they are vulnerable and that they need to make the best of each day. Since the public is confused about who among the myriad of available career practitioners can best help them with career issues, this article presents an overall picture of career services in California.

Career Counselors and other career practitioners can help workers find meaningful work in a fluctuating economy and constantly changing business climate. Jane Goodman, President of the American Counseling Association, advises job seekers and career changers to seek the help of a Career Counselor on a regular basis, similar to a doctor's or dentist's check-up.

Between layoffs, the changing nature of work, and people living longer with evolving interests and skill sets, the traditional notion of "career" is practically extinct. Life and work are intermingled as more people telecommute, move from one job to another, and create their own businesses. A larger view of life and work that relates to society's, as well as their own and family needs, can help workers manage the ever-changing job picture. Following is a sampling of career practitioners who can help guide workers in their job search and career development.

Professional Career Counselors are academically trained to help people make and carry out decisions and plans related to career/life issues. They tailor their services to the specific needs of the person seeking help.

A Professional Career Counselor can help when you are trying to figure out what to do with your life, have questions about education and training options, want help sorting out what's most important to you in your work and want to change career direction or find a new job, and are experiencing frustration or dissatisfaction with your job.

Among the issues that Career Counselors can help with are choosing a career; planning for career change and/or advancement strategies; marketable/transferable skills analysis and development; labor market research including forecasts and trends; assessment of career values, interests, skills and preferences; improving job search skills and strategies, including resume and interview preparation and networking; managing career transitions, including layoffs, downsizing and re-entry; life/work balance; dual career family issues, and retirement planning.

Career Counselors work in a variety of settings: public and community agencies; colleges and universities; public schools; community colleges; private practice; mental health centers; rehabilitation services; government, business and industry.

Credentialed Counselors in California are registered by the California Registry of Professional Counselors and Paraprofessionals or certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). In addition to a Masters degree and two years' experience, Professional Career Counselors must also pass a national exam, take several graduate career development courses, adhere to a code of ethics, and document continuing education.

The educational background of other career practitioners, who may have earned a career development certificate, ranges from a high school diploma to a doctorate degree. They provide career assistance, but not counseling, unless they also have a Masters Degree in Counseling.

Career Development Facilitators, Career Coaches, Resume Writers, and Recruiters focus on specific job search tasks. They contract with hiring organizations or individuals and may have expertise or unique information about career entry or organizational culture. Resume Writers help job seekers direct their message to appropriate employers through networking, targeted mailings, the Internet, and associations from their own trade. Recruiters, head hunters, executive search firms, and staffing agencies screen candidates to find the person most suited to jobs that employers need filled and are paid by the hiring organization.

Credentialing of career practitioners varies from state to state. The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) certifies Professional Counselors who have masters degrees from accredited universities. The National Career Development Association has special professional membership categories that include: Fellow, Master Career Counselor (MCC), and Master Career Development Professional (MCDP). The levels of professional membership are based upon education and training, experience in the field, and contributions to the field.

In California, the California Registry of Professional Counselors and Paraprofessionals certifies Registered Professional Career Counselors and Registered Professional Counselors, as well as Paraprofessionals, all of whom have to pass a national or state exam, and follow a code of ethics. Professional Career Counselors and Professional Counselors have continuing education requirements. Career Development Facilitator certification is provided through the Center for Credentialing and Education, Inc. (CCE), a subsidiary of NBCC. The National Career Development Association certifies CDF Instructors. Like Professional Career Counselors and Professional Counselors, CDFs and CDFIs are bound by a code of ethics. The education and certification of other career practitioners vary from state to state.

Choosing a career practitioner that meets your needs can be a daunting experience, especially since you may be feeling overwhelmed with the job search or in the midst of a life transition. Following are ways to help you identify the practitioner who is right for you. View the California Career Development Association web site (http://www.ccdaweb.org), to the link "Consumer Information ," then to "A Consumer Guide to Career Services." For a referral to a Professional Career Counselor near you, there are two resources you can contact by telephone or on-line:

The California Registry of Professional Counselors and Paraprofessionals
Phone: 714-284-8857
Website: www.california-registry.org

The National Board for Certified Counselors
Phone: 336-547-0607
Website: www.nbcc.org

Once you have found a career provider that you are interested in seeing, you should ask several important questions, such as:
- - What services do you offer and what are your fees?
- - What is your education and training?
- - What credentials do you have in your field?
- - To what professional organizations do you belong?
- - How can you help me with my problems?
- - How long do you think the consultation will last?

For detailed answers to questions that consumers frequently ask, view: http://www.ncda.org (go to Consumers & Job Seekers link). The National Career Development Association answers the question, "What do career counseling clients have the right to expect?":

You may ask career counselors for a detailed explanation of services, fees, time commitments, and a copy of their ethical guidelines. Select a counselor who is professionally trained, who specifies fees and services upon request, and who lets you choose the services you desire. Make certain you can terminate the services at any time, paying only for services rendered.

Career counseling requires the expertise of a trained professional. Be wary of services that promise you more money, quick promotions, or guaranteed resumes. Career issues are usually complex and require a multifaceted approach by a career counselor who has extensive education, training, and experience. Be skeptical of services that make promises of more money, better jobs, resumes that get speedy results, or an immediate solution to career problems.....Be wary of firms that charge very large fees. Ask any counselor you are considering for a detailed explanation of services (career counseling, assessment, employment search strategy planning, resume writing, and so forth). Make sure you understand the services, your degree of involvement, and your financial commitment.

The California Career Development Association offers career information for the public and sponsors career events at book stores, schools and other locations throughout California during November Career Month. For information on California Career Month and other consumer and press questions, contact the current Public Awareness Chair on CCDA's Executive Board.