Over the last three years, large numbers of workers have been losing their jobs and experiencing involuntary unemployment for extended periods of time, as much as two years or more. This is a situation that creates a tremendous challenge for career counselors. This paper begins by providing an historical, economic context for the discussion and then describes common effects of long-term unemployment on individuals and families. The authors also propose strategies for addressing these effects. Finally, different perspectives are presented that counselors may want to consider in helping clients negotiate the emerging world of work landscape. (Contains 12 references.) (GCP)