Individuals who choose to become counselors understand that a lot of their work is based upon trust and mutual understanding with their client. To promote the healing process, some therapists employ different techniques to help their patients feel comfortable enough to discuss deep-seated issues.

One such program aims to incorporate therapy animals into counseling sessions with emotionally wounded children. Often, these kids have suffered abuse or neglect, and professionals hope that the animals help calm children and help them talk about their experiences.

The initiative called "Therapy Animals Supporting Kids" is sponsored by the American Humane Association. It is believed that the bond children form with these animals will help them to work through their troubling pasts.

"I understand the importance of helping children feel comfortable when disclosing and testifying about abuse or trauma," explained former attorney Allie Phillips. She now works as vice president as of the association's Public Policy Office and feels "therapy animals provide that comfort and security" children need.

Those interested in working as counselors should be encouraged by the Bureau of Labor Statistic's prediction that jobs in the field will grow by 15% until 2016.