Photo of Althea Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Althea Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
You are the focus! With over 30 years of experience as a seasoned clinician, I recognize the uniqueness of each person who walks through my door. As the client, you guide the pace of treatment, and together as a team, we identify the steps to enhance your quality of life. Whether you seek short-term sessions or a more extended journey, I'm here to help you create the life you desire and navigate challenges, be it a life transition, a relationship issue, or a lifelong wound. Let's work together on this journey.
You are the focus! With over 30 years of experience as a seasoned clinician, I recognize the uniqueness of each person who walks through my door. As the client, you guide the pace of treatment, and together as a team, we identify the steps to enhance your quality of life. Whether you seek short-term sessions or a more extended journey, I'm here to help you create the life you desire and navigate challenges, be it a life transition, a relationship issue, or a lifelong wound. Let's work together on this journey.
(815) 661-2951 View (815) 661-2951
Photo of GreenPath Clinic, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
GreenPath Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
(630) 626-0473 View (630) 626-0473
Photo of Lauren Brymer, Counselor in Plainfield, IL
Lauren Brymer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60585
Just as we exist within an external system; family, work environments, neighborhoods, school community, we have a personal internal system within each of us. These two systems influence each other throughout every day of our lives. Just as our minds need to understand our external systems like the rules at our office or school, we need to understand the interaction of the parts within ourselves. This may be a difficult concept to wrap your mind around because we live in a world with such external rules. What would it be like if we lived by the knowledge of the internal and external systems ?
Just as we exist within an external system; family, work environments, neighborhoods, school community, we have a personal internal system within each of us. These two systems influence each other throughout every day of our lives. Just as our minds need to understand our external systems like the rules at our office or school, we need to understand the interaction of the parts within ourselves. This may be a difficult concept to wrap your mind around because we live in a world with such external rules. What would it be like if we lived by the knowledge of the internal and external systems ?
(708) 620-2157 View (708) 620-2157

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joselyn C Woodson, Counselor in Plainfield, IL
Joselyn C Woodson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Life presents challenges for all of us. As a highly skilled therapist, I help individuals, couples, and families who have become overwhelmed by life's challenges or feeling "stuck" in their situation. I help my clients build inner strength and find relief from disturbing emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a personalized treatment approach tailored to a client's needs. I work with clients to identify and overcome dysfunctional patterns that interfere with mental well-being, relationships and general life satisfaction.
Life presents challenges for all of us. As a highly skilled therapist, I help individuals, couples, and families who have become overwhelmed by life's challenges or feeling "stuck" in their situation. I help my clients build inner strength and find relief from disturbing emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a personalized treatment approach tailored to a client's needs. I work with clients to identify and overcome dysfunctional patterns that interfere with mental well-being, relationships and general life satisfaction.
(630) 756-5119 View (630) 756-5119
Photo of Carla Marquez Ripley, Counselor in Plainfield, IL
Carla Marquez Ripley
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.
I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.
(331) 245-3667 View (331) 245-3667
Photo of Talvir Shahi, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Plainfield, IL
Talvir Shahi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Hello! I am the Co-Director and Psychotherapist with The Naperville Counseling Center. My clinical experience focus on working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, work-life balance, stress, anxiety, depression, mood management, cultural identity issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I also speak Punjabi and have full comprehension of Hindi/ Urdu and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
Hello! I am the Co-Director and Psychotherapist with The Naperville Counseling Center. My clinical experience focus on working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, work-life balance, stress, anxiety, depression, mood management, cultural identity issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I also speak Punjabi and have full comprehension of Hindi/ Urdu and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
(847) 383-0561 x103 View (847) 383-0561 x103

Online Therapists

Photo of Magdalena Perez, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
Magdalena Perez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Dr. Magdalena Perez is a bilingual English-Spanish licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Perez has over 15 years’ experience treating children, families and couples. She has treated a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, family conflict, marital distress, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. Dr. Perez has received extensive training on providing culturally sensitive treatments and is published on Latinx mental health issues. Dr. Perez’s therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental and transparent. She believes it is an honor to work with her clients and navigate through the heartaches of life.
Dr. Magdalena Perez is a bilingual English-Spanish licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Perez has over 15 years’ experience treating children, families and couples. She has treated a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, family conflict, marital distress, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. Dr. Perez has received extensive training on providing culturally sensitive treatments and is published on Latinx mental health issues. Dr. Perez’s therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental and transparent. She believes it is an honor to work with her clients and navigate through the heartaches of life.
(224) 347-7304 View (224) 347-7304
Photo of Anastasia Stacy Koumbis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Anastasia Stacy Koumbis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Our specialties include: assessment, ADHD, depression, anxiety, coaching and marriage and family therapy.
In the course of our lives, we may experience challenges that can throw us off-balance in unexpected ways. These challenges can lead to depression, anxiety, relationship problems and substance abuse. Using a strengths-based approach, together we identify the tools you can use to better understand and address these challenges in order to regain balance in your life. This process will allow you to make the skillful choices you need to live the life you desire.
Our specialties include: assessment, ADHD, depression, anxiety, coaching and marriage and family therapy.
In the course of our lives, we may experience challenges that can throw us off-balance in unexpected ways. These challenges can lead to depression, anxiety, relationship problems and substance abuse. Using a strengths-based approach, together we identify the tools you can use to better understand and address these challenges in order to regain balance in your life. This process will allow you to make the skillful choices you need to live the life you desire.
(847) 316-0630 View (847) 316-0630
Photo of Susan Ryan-Michalak, Counselor in Plainfield, IL
Susan Ryan-Michalak
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, LBSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, an EMDR TRAINED CLINICIAN AND A LEARNING BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST with a focus on Individuals, Marriage, Family, and Children.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, an EMDR TRAINED CLINICIAN AND A LEARNING BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST with a focus on Individuals, Marriage, Family, and Children.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
(773) 796-4048 View (773) 796-4048
Photo of Josie Miller, Counselor in Plainfield, IL
Josie Miller
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
In addition to my expertise in eating disorders and EMDR therapy, I have extensive experience working with couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and resolve marital issues.
With over two decades of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families, I am deeply committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey to healing. My passion lies in providing specialized care for eating disorders, honed through years of working in diverse inpatient and outpatient settings. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about utilizing EMDR as a powerful tool to facilitate profound healing experiences. EMDR is often quite effective in accessing and addressing deep-seated issues and "stuck points," often leading to a sense of relief and empowerment for my clients.
In addition to my expertise in eating disorders and EMDR therapy, I have extensive experience working with couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and resolve marital issues.
With over two decades of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families, I am deeply committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey to healing. My passion lies in providing specialized care for eating disorders, honed through years of working in diverse inpatient and outpatient settings. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about utilizing EMDR as a powerful tool to facilitate profound healing experiences. EMDR is often quite effective in accessing and addressing deep-seated issues and "stuck points," often leading to a sense of relief and empowerment for my clients.
(331) 259-8758 View (331) 259-8758
Photo of Dr. Nirmeen Rajani, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
Dr. Nirmeen Rajani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Do you want a safe, nurturing, and empathetic space where you can share your fears and painful life circumstances? Do you want to learn concrete coping skills to work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and embark on a path of improved quality of life? I have extensive experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief counseling, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, pediatric concerns and maternal depression. I also enjoy working with couples who are experiencing conflicts in their marriage and are determined to bring positive changes in their life.
Do you want a safe, nurturing, and empathetic space where you can share your fears and painful life circumstances? Do you want to learn concrete coping skills to work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and embark on a path of improved quality of life? I have extensive experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief counseling, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, pediatric concerns and maternal depression. I also enjoy working with couples who are experiencing conflicts in their marriage and are determined to bring positive changes in their life.
(847) 499-1928 View (847) 499-1928
Photo of Angelique Chen, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
Angelique Chen
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing psychotherapy, consultation, and supervision services. I work with teenagers, children, adults, and couples struggling with a variety of issues, relationship challenges, changes, and transitions throughout the life cycle.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing psychotherapy, consultation, and supervision services. I work with teenagers, children, adults, and couples struggling with a variety of issues, relationship challenges, changes, and transitions throughout the life cycle.
(708) 381-2863 View (708) 381-2863
Photo of Christopher Holly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Christopher Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, marital and couples counseling, drug and alcohol abuse, pain disorder, loss and grief, transgender issues, LGBQT issues, as well as those in the fetish/BDSM community.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
I work with people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, marital and couples counseling, drug and alcohol abuse, pain disorder, loss and grief, transgender issues, LGBQT issues, as well as those in the fetish/BDSM community.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
Photo of Gina Raza, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
Gina Raza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173  (Online Only)
Life can be hard. If you're stressed, and wish you had more peace in your life, there's hope! That nagging anxiety can eat up your joy. It doesn't have to stay that way, there are effective strategies that will help! Therapy takes courage, but it is so worth it - you can experience positive change, freedom from fear or guilt, and enthusiasm about your life. I also specialize in Couples therapy (marital, long-term couples, and pre-marital). It IS possible to revitalize your relationship! Therapy will help you reconnect, communicate more effectively, and strengthen your understanding of one another.
Life can be hard. If you're stressed, and wish you had more peace in your life, there's hope! That nagging anxiety can eat up your joy. It doesn't have to stay that way, there are effective strategies that will help! Therapy takes courage, but it is so worth it - you can experience positive change, freedom from fear or guilt, and enthusiasm about your life. I also specialize in Couples therapy (marital, long-term couples, and pre-marital). It IS possible to revitalize your relationship! Therapy will help you reconnect, communicate more effectively, and strengthen your understanding of one another.
(224) 864-9173 View (224) 864-9173
Photo of Shanequia Seymore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Shanequia Seymore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Olympia Fields, IL 60461  (Online Only)
My area of specialization when it comes to working with clients includes: anxiety, work/life balance, relationship/marital issues, phase of life changes, adjustment disorders, depression, boundaries, intimacy issues, and decision-making!.
Welcome All! I am a licensed clinical social worker. I earned my master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Understanding the difficulty of “seeing the light at the end of the tunnel” while dealing with issues, has driven me to become a therapist who could provide an unbiased, outside perspective to help others “see the light” at the end of their tunnel in order to aide in living your best life!
My area of specialization when it comes to working with clients includes: anxiety, work/life balance, relationship/marital issues, phase of life changes, adjustment disorders, depression, boundaries, intimacy issues, and decision-making!.
Welcome All! I am a licensed clinical social worker. I earned my master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Understanding the difficulty of “seeing the light at the end of the tunnel” while dealing with issues, has driven me to become a therapist who could provide an unbiased, outside perspective to help others “see the light” at the end of their tunnel in order to aide in living your best life!
(708) 367-6045 View (708) 367-6045
Photo of Jordan White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Jordan White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Are you scouring the internet, consumed by worry and racing thoughts, heart pounding in your chest? Perhaps you're grappling with distraction, irritability, and marital discord. The struggle to focus or find peace leaves you restless and disconnected. You've exhausted every avenue and now seek a fresh approach, craving proactive guidance and practical solutions. You yearn for a therapist who offers more than just conversation—someone who understands, assigns homework, and collaborates with you to tackle challenges head-on.
Are you scouring the internet, consumed by worry and racing thoughts, heart pounding in your chest? Perhaps you're grappling with distraction, irritability, and marital discord. The struggle to focus or find peace leaves you restless and disconnected. You've exhausted every avenue and now seek a fresh approach, craving proactive guidance and practical solutions. You yearn for a therapist who offers more than just conversation—someone who understands, assigns homework, and collaborates with you to tackle challenges head-on.
(708) 480-9837 View (708) 480-9837
Photo of Tom Alm, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
Tom Alm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have practiced in a variety of mental health settings since 2006. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with a range of issues. I received my doctorate in clinical psychology from LaSalle University with a specialty in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and my Bachelor of Arts from Colgate University. I worked as a staff psychologist for 5 years at The Depression and Anxiety Specialty Clinic of Chicago, a private practice in Lakeview, and most recently at The Family Institute at Northwestern for 2 years.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have practiced in a variety of mental health settings since 2006. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with a range of issues. I received my doctorate in clinical psychology from LaSalle University with a specialty in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and my Bachelor of Arts from Colgate University. I worked as a staff psychologist for 5 years at The Depression and Anxiety Specialty Clinic of Chicago, a private practice in Lakeview, and most recently at The Family Institute at Northwestern for 2 years.
(224) 223-1132 x11 View (224) 223-1132 x11
Photo of Stephen Brian Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Stephen Brian Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I am accepting new clients at this time. My career in Social Work has instilled in me a compassion to work with those most marginalized among us. As I have found purpose in my path I want to help others find similarly meaning and purpose which leads to deeper fulfillment. I provide guidance and support during stressful life transitions while discovering your truest identity and desire. I want to help you transform from feeling stuck into finding meaning and mission. I work with helping you find your calling! I also provide relationship counseling based on the Gottman Methodology.
I am accepting new clients at this time. My career in Social Work has instilled in me a compassion to work with those most marginalized among us. As I have found purpose in my path I want to help others find similarly meaning and purpose which leads to deeper fulfillment. I provide guidance and support during stressful life transitions while discovering your truest identity and desire. I want to help you transform from feeling stuck into finding meaning and mission. I work with helping you find your calling! I also provide relationship counseling based on the Gottman Methodology.
(312) 818-4483 View (312) 818-4483
Photo of Dr. Zeeshan Rajani, Psychologist in Plainfield, IL
Dr. Zeeshan Rajani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder, trauma/PTSD, addiction, women's/men's issues, domestic violence/abuse, and other socioemotional and interpersonal related concerns. Clinically, I work with clients (adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families) primarily through a cognitive-behavioral approach, fostering empathy and authenticity in a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment. I also work strongly through a collaborative approach, helping clients gain a deeper understanding into their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in order to help cultivate positive change.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder, trauma/PTSD, addiction, women's/men's issues, domestic violence/abuse, and other socioemotional and interpersonal related concerns. Clinically, I work with clients (adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families) primarily through a cognitive-behavioral approach, fostering empathy and authenticity in a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment. I also work strongly through a collaborative approach, helping clients gain a deeper understanding into their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in order to help cultivate positive change.
(224) 458-2556 View (224) 458-2556
Photo of Alexander Bauman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainfield, IL
Alexander Bauman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
The basis of an ideal client in my lens does not have a select issue. Everyone has their own life challenges and emotional weight they carry with them. In the end, what I want for my clients is a common goal to be the best version of themselves they can be while being open-minded in facing tasks related to that goal. Whether it is an interpersonal relationship problem, anxiety, substance abuse, etc; the ultimate goal is to be better in comparison to yourself yesterday rather than someone else. That common ideal goal is what I aim for with every client I work with through the use of problem-solving strategies and coping mechanisms.
The basis of an ideal client in my lens does not have a select issue. Everyone has their own life challenges and emotional weight they carry with them. In the end, what I want for my clients is a common goal to be the best version of themselves they can be while being open-minded in facing tasks related to that goal. Whether it is an interpersonal relationship problem, anxiety, substance abuse, etc; the ultimate goal is to be better in comparison to yourself yesterday rather than someone else. That common ideal goal is what I aim for with every client I work with through the use of problem-solving strategies and coping mechanisms.
(847) 282-4041 View (847) 282-4041
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.