Also, be sure to note that years of experience also play a critical role in determining yearly salaries. After a few years of working as a counselor, taking additional courses or attending a seminar can help improve your practice and possibly expand it to other services. Valley Psychological Services is an expanding mental health clinic in a rural area in Washington state. For Your Business. Professional development through continuing education is an important factor for advancement in a counseling career. Employer name. Whether you want to open your own practice or work for a clinic or in a hospital, research areas of the country that have high employment rates in your field.