There are many parents who, even after researching and discussing matters with their child, have little confidence in their understanding of the complexity of the career guidance process. There are many who would like to get further help to clarify the choices available to them.

The first point of call is to the school guidance counsellor. Every school in Ireland should have a qualified guidance counsellor, whose job, amongst others, is to provide guidance in matters concerning career choice. Encourage your child to make an appointment with the school guidance counsellor to discuss whatever matters are of concern. Ensure that your child has prepared in advance some of the questions they want answered. The process of preparing questions can be informative and can help focus the mind.

In some instances, it may be appropriate for parents to make an appointment also, as your participation in the process may provide necessary support for your child.

Some parents will also seek advice from a guidance counsellor independent of the school, for example, in private practice. Guidance counsellors in Ireland are regulated by the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, so it is worth ensuring that any professional you meet with is a current member of that body.

List of professional Guidance Counsellors offering private consultations.