Managing career plateaus for mid-career professionals: A process-driven practice intervention using life-design counseling

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the impact of life-design counseling (LDC) on mid-career professionals facing career plateauing. Seven mid-career professionals underwent counselling sessions focused on overcoming barriers, evaluating career beliefs, and exploring options. Thematic analysis delves into their experiences, attitudes, and unresolved mid-career dilemmas. Results indicate a shift from problem-focused to solution-based thinking. A two-wave longitudinal study spanning 4 years confirms counseling's effectiveness in assisting individuals in making crucial career decisions, guiding positive career redirection amidst mid-career plateauing. Our study specifically explored and analyzed the practical application of LDC intervention in the real-world counseling scenario for overcoming career plateauing.