Theory and Practice of Counseling introduces counseling as a distinct profession concerned with informed choices, problem resolution, and personal growth. Identified as course PSY632, the text outlines a learning pathway through historical foundations, counseling processes and methods, theoretical approaches, assessment, and counseling situations. Its opening lesson emphasizes both professional preparation and the everyday value of understanding oneself and communicating effectively with others. The discussion presents counseling as a relationship, a psychological process, and a repertoire of interventions. Definitions highlight the client's participation in clarifying goals and making meaningful decisions. Empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness appear as central conditions of the counseling relationship. Confidentiality, honesty, emotional involvement, support, and growth further distinguish this professional interaction from ordinary friendship or informal assistance. A recurring concern is helping clients become capable of helping themselves. The text examines why providing a service does not automatically make someone a counselor, and why professional helping requires ethical practice and a theoretical foundation. It also compares guidance with counseling and introduces the difficulty of drawing firm boundaries between counseling and psychotherapy. The course design connects concepts with classroom demonstrations, case studies, and reflective counseling journals. Students are encouraged to assess their motivations and personal characteristics, practice attending and listening skills, examine theories against their values and professional goals, and consider ethical issues and the settings in which counseling can be applied.