Those who are considering a career in counseling face many questions. This book is designed to provide information and insight on the process and problems associated with development as a professional counselor. It is intended for those thinking about entering a counselor training program, students in training, and professionals who deal with the instruction or supervision of counselors. It is based on personal and professional experiences, and emphasizes the concept that counselors and counselor trainees are people first and students and professionals second. Each chapter addresses a unique theme and the many issues surrounding that theme. Specific activities and suggestions are offered at the end of each section. The information here is presented directly and personally and the chapters instruct the reader in how to select a program, succeed in that program, and become a professional counselor. Areas covered include choosing a graduate program, how to recognize a quality counselor education program, how to get the most from a program, critical early decisions about specialization and gaining experience, overcoming difficult personal challenges, supplementing one's formal education, strategies for finding a job, issues surrounding decisions to pursue a doctorate, and the transition from student to employed professional. (RJM)