What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
counseling
Example
She sought counseling to deal with her anxiety. [counseling: noun]
Example
The counselor is counseling the patient on how to manage their anger. [counseling: verb]
consultation
Example
He scheduled a consultation with a lawyer to discuss his legal options. [consultation: noun]
Example
The doctor consulted with her colleagues before making a diagnosis. [consulted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Counseling is more commonly used than consultation in the context of mental health and well-being. Consultation is more commonly used in professional settings, such as law, finance, or business, where expert advice is required.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between counseling and consultation?
Consultation is generally more formal than counseling, as it involves seeking expert advice or recommendations in a professional setting. Counseling, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the nature of the issue being addressed.
