Career Counseling



Career Counseling is a process that helps individuals explore ideas regarding the world of work in order to make career, educational, and life decisions.

Career Counseling FAQs


Who can benefit from career counseling?

  • New college graduates seeking their first job.

  • Experienced professionals seeking a new position in an established field.

  • Stay-at home parents who have never worked outside the home or are returning to work after a long career break.

  • Career changers looking for a new field.

  • Those who are have been looking on their own but need some fresh ideas and professional support.

  • Current or prospective students looking to choose a major or graduate degree program.

  • Part-time workers looking to secure a full-time position.


What is the process?

Every client comes to the process with a unique mindset and a different set of strengths and challenges. In the initial meeting, Soma listens to the client's story, helps identify long and short-term goals, and then creates an individualized plan on how to move forward. Depending on your needs, Soma can help create or improve your resume, LinkedIn profile, networking and interview skills.


How is working with a career counselor different than working with a recruiter?

A recruiter helps job seekers secure a particular position. External recruiters are often paid by the company where they place you. In career counseling, you pay the counselor directly. Soma's only goal is to help you explore your options and help you move forward accordingly.


There is so much free information about job seeking on the internet. What can a career counselor help me with that I can't do myself?

There is an abundance of career information and support on-line. Some of it is very helpful. Navigating which tools are useful and how to use them can be daunting. Depending on your specific needs, Soma can help you choose which resources would be the best fit for you. She can introduce you to free and low cost job search resources and also help you identify efficient, low cost courses to increase or brush-up on skills.


How much does career counseling cost and how long does it take?

Based on your needs, Soma will work with you to create a plan that works for both your timeline and your budget.


I am going through a difficult transition. Is it possible for me to find work?

Looking for work can be challenging, and even more so when in difficult times. Soma has worked with clients experiencing many types of hardship including:

  • Those experiencing domestic violence

  • Clients struggling with physical or mental health issues

  • Professionals who have experienced a recent layoff or termination

  • Job seekers attempting to return to work after a disability

  • Applicants with a criminal offense on their record

  • Individuals going through a difficult divorce


Please contact us for a complimentary consultation and rate information.

Contact Us

Soma McCandless Vocational Consulting


1030 E. El Camino Real, #405, Sunnyvale, CA 94087

Email: info@somamccandless.net | Phone: 408-412-1307