text: I think workplace counselling is an excellent idea as it can reduce sickness levels and makes for a happier work environment. If people have problems in their life which remain unresolved they are unable to give the job a 100%. Counsellors need to be trained to at least certificate level and ideally to diploma level or working towards it. All counsellors have to have access to first rate supervision. Sessions should be planned and generally time limited where possible. Most local authorities have a staff counselling service as to many large companies.