What defines the practice of counseling in Maryland?

The practice of counseling in Maryland is defined by the collaborative relationship between counselors and their clients aimed at promoting mental health and well-being. This definition emphasizes the importance of working together with clients to explore their challenges, set goals, and develop strategies for change. The emphasis on collaboration highlights that counselors do not merely give advice but rather facilitate a process of self-discovery and empowerment for their clients, leading to better mental health outcomes.

Other options focus on specific aspects of counseling that may not encompass the entirety of what defines the practice. For instance, while providing advice is a part of counseling, it does not reflect the collaborative nature of the work. Testing and diagnosing mental illnesses, although important in certain contexts, are more characteristic of clinical psychology rather than the general practice of counseling. Leading group therapy sessions represents a specific modality within counseling but does not define the entire practice. The collaborative approach to enhancing mental health is what fundamentally underlines the essence of counseling in Maryland.