Counselor

A counselor is a position aboard Star Fleet vessels and other installations, usually held by a senior Star Fleet officer with training in psychology.

Qualified psychiatrists served aboard starships during the 23rd century.

By the mid-24th century, starship and starbase crews included a counselor, who was responsible for the mental well-being of the crew and civilian staff. The position was considered vital enough that it was a part of the senior staff of the Federation flagship USS Enterprise-D. In that particular instance, the ship's counselor also had a diplomatic role, advising the captain in first contact and other situations.

As with the chief medical officer, the ship's counselor has the power to relieve other officers and crewmembers of duty if he or she feels that their patient is suffering from a condition that may hinder their ability to perform their duties effectively.