Life and social counseling (Lebens- und Sozialberatung, or LSB) is a professional form of counseling that supports people facing difficult life situations. In Austria, it is often described as one of the four pillars of preventive healthcare — alongside medicine, psychotherapy, and psychology. Despite this, many people are not quite sure what it involves or who it is for.

What Does Life and Social Counseling Cover?

The focus is on guidance for concrete life questions. Life and social counselors work with people who are dealing with challenges that are hard to navigate alone — not in the sense of mental illness, but as part of everyday life. Common topics include:

  • Relationship problems and conflicts with a partner

  • Family tensions or parenting questions

  • Career decisions, overwhelm, or professional reorientation

  • Life crises such as separation, loss, or major transitions

  • Stress, exhaustion, and questions about life balance

  • Grief and coping with difficult life events

  • Personal development and questions of meaning

How Does It Differ From Psychotherapy?

Life and social counseling and psychotherapy are two distinct fields that complement each other.

Life and social counseling is aimed at fundamentally healthy individuals seeking support with concrete life questions. The focus is on the present situation, on solutions, and on strengthening existing resources — not on treating mental illness.

Psychotherapy can also be used without a diagnosis, but often aims at treating psychological distress or mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, or trauma. The work typically reaches deeper into a person's history.

If you are unsure which form of support fits your situation, an introductory session is a good first step.

Life and Social Counseling in Austria: A Regulated Trade

In Austria, life and social counseling is a regulated trade (reglementiertes Gewerbe). This means that anyone offering this type of counseling must have completed extensive training and hold a valid trade license. The training typically covers at least five semesters and includes theory, methodology, self-awareness work, and supervision.

This legal framework gives clients a degree of assurance. Unlike in many other countries, the title of life counselor is legally protected in Austria.

What Does a Typical Session Look Like?

Counseling usually begins with an initial session where your concerns are discussed and you get to know the counselor. Depending on the topic, this may be followed by one or several further sessions. A session typically lasts between 50 and 90 minutes.

The approach is generally solution- and goal-oriented. This means the focus is less on working through the past and more on developing concrete next steps. Many concerns can be addressed within a manageable timeframe of just a few sessions.

What Does Life and Social Counseling Cost?

Costs vary depending on the counselor and the region. Fees generally range from 60 to 120 euros per session. Life and social counseling is currently not covered by Austria's public health insurance. Some counselors offer reduced rates, and certain supplementary insurance plans may contribute to the cost.

How Do I Find the Right Counselor?

Personal fit matters. Look for someone with a valid trade license, relevant specialization (e.g. couples counseling, grief, stress management), and practical availability. An introductory session is the best way to see whether you feel comfortable.

On Therapeutensuche.at, you can search for life and social counselors in your area by topic and location.