Counseling is a very commonly used term in India. How it is being used and for what, is a matter of
discussion. This aspect is extremely important to understand the status of therapeutic / psychological / clinical
counseling in India. This paper is a study of people’s perception about this profession based on the author’s experiences as a counselor in schools and college as well as in private practice. The objective of the paper is to elaborate on the profession as perceived in India and make an attempt to understand where the country stands with regard to counseling through intensive review of literature. This would enable the author as well as the readers to understand the progress made as well as the progress required. The paper also discusses the role of this profession in mental well being of common man. The paper would also carry a few case studies from the author’s professional experience. The paper would conclude with suggestions and recommendations for a better standing for this profession in India.