I am pursing a Master’s in Counseling at [name removed] University. My long term goal is to have a private practice so it was with great interest that I read your July 2011 article.

I have been mulling over your first tip which was to not say, “I am a Counselor” but something focused on your target audience.

I am drawn to help people with grief and loss issues. When answering the, “What do you do?” question, I want to focus on my target audience, but not be too depressing at same time.

What do you think of:

I help people navigate life transitions.

I help people accept and navigate life transitions.

I help people accept and navigate expected and unexpected life transitions.

I wonder if this last on is too long?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and this great tip!

Amy Smith

Answer: Hi Amy!

It’s great to hear from you!

Your introduction lines are good! You might want to just consider a couple small points. First, identify your target market a as closely as possible:

[I help people] accept and navigate life transitions.

I help young mothers…
I help engaged and newly married couples…
I help burnt our businessmen…..

Second, avoid statements that people might not understand clearly. Be as specific as possible.

I help people [accept and navigate life transitions].

….adjust to married life
…..deal with daily stresses
…..cope with major mental illness
….become happier

Amy, I hope this helps!!

–Anthony