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All people need someone to "be there" for them now and again. And "being there" is a good way to describe the role filled by
residential counselors. The "residence" may be a psychiatric hospital, a half-way house,
a group home, or a housing project. It may even be a prison or youth correctional facility.
The people or "clients" who turn to residential counselors may have extreme infirmities or
mental disorders, or they may lack even the most basic social and life skills. They may
even resent the fact that they need a counselor's help. The job can sometimes be emotionally
draining. But if you love people and sincerely want to help those in need, being a residential
counselor can be very rewarding. Few professions offer the level of personal satisfaction that
comes with knowing that you've helped someone deal with his or her problems and begin to
lead a happier life. Some post-high school training in social work, psychology, or the
behavioral sciences is usually required. However, patience, compassion, and a genuine desire
to help people are the most essential requirements of a residential counselor.