Photo of Tara Kosma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Tara Kosma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, ME 04105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I treat individuals requiring gender identity support and those experiencing life transitions, mood disorders, substance misuse, trauma, marital/family issues, separation, divorce, recovery, affairs, sexual issues, and other mental health diagnoses.
As a therapist, my priority is to foster a therapeutic environment that feels warm, compassionate, and is uniquely tailored to each person. I care deeply about using a genuine, non-judgmental approach as I support you in navigating complex emotions, challenging relationships and moments of uncertainty. Therapy can be a transformative experience when given the right support. You will experience newfound resilience, self-acceptance, and meaningful insights.
I treat individuals requiring gender identity support and those experiencing life transitions, mood disorders, substance misuse, trauma, marital/family issues, separation, divorce, recovery, affairs, sexual issues, and other mental health diagnoses.
As a therapist, my priority is to foster a therapeutic environment that feels warm, compassionate, and is uniquely tailored to each person. I care deeply about using a genuine, non-judgmental approach as I support you in navigating complex emotions, challenging relationships and moments of uncertainty. Therapy can be a transformative experience when given the right support. You will experience newfound resilience, self-acceptance, and meaningful insights.
(207) 600-1172 View (207) 600-1172
Photo of Todd MacFarlane, LCPC, Counselor in Maine
Todd MacFarlane, LCPC
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety , alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.
My clients should expect that the majority of their "work" will be outside of the office through homework, exposure and task completion. My clients will benefit from initial sessions that are focused on insight development and understanding the "why" of their current emotional dysregulation . Unmet needs, patterns of behavior and most importantly patterns of thought will be identified. Clients will then spend time utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies and interventions. Clients will experience therapy that will prioritize and embrace behavioral activation as the vehicle of change. Expect feedback and support!
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety , alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.
My clients should expect that the majority of their "work" will be outside of the office through homework, exposure and task completion. My clients will benefit from initial sessions that are focused on insight development and understanding the "why" of their current emotional dysregulation . Unmet needs, patterns of behavior and most importantly patterns of thought will be identified. Clients will then spend time utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies and interventions. Clients will experience therapy that will prioritize and embrace behavioral activation as the vehicle of change. Expect feedback and support!
(207) 389-7091 View (207) 389-7091
Photo of Margaret M Anzalone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Margaret M Anzalone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakland, ME 04963  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling and consulting draws from rich traditions of spirituality, energy healing, and psychology. My framework is TRANSFORMATIONAL in nature, insight-oriented, purposeful, and achieving wholeness from a personal or spiritual perspective. I am trained in both the behavioral sciences and religion. My goal is to provide therapeutic services to individuals and groups for all ages. I respect the dignity and worth of every person and consider it a privilege to WELCOME and ACCOMPANY people on their journey as challenging situations come up. Trained as a Pastoral Counselor, Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist, and Spiritual Director, my modality is eclectic.
My approach to counseling and consulting draws from rich traditions of spirituality, energy healing, and psychology. My framework is TRANSFORMATIONAL in nature, insight-oriented, purposeful, and achieving wholeness from a personal or spiritual perspective. I am trained in both the behavioral sciences and religion. My goal is to provide therapeutic services to individuals and groups for all ages. I respect the dignity and worth of every person and consider it a privilege to WELCOME and ACCOMPANY people on their journey as challenging situations come up. Trained as a Pastoral Counselor, Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist, and Spiritual Director, my modality is eclectic.
(978) 705-6595 View (978) 705-6595
Photo of Stephen A Joffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Stephen A Joffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-ME
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Coaching, consultation, education and training in Bay Area, CA, and by encrypted video from any location. Experienced and expertise with couples, families, and individuals. Focus on the process of change to facilitate your evolution. Very experienced with children, adolescents, young adults and adults. Clients from 5-70+, male and female, all racial and ethnic groups, all religious orientations. Marital and couples work and parenting focused education. Provide guidance and support for college students struggling/in transition. Private pay. Licensed in Maine. Focus on the process of achieving change and barriers.
Coaching, consultation, education and training in Bay Area, CA, and by encrypted video from any location. Experienced and expertise with couples, families, and individuals. Focus on the process of change to facilitate your evolution. Very experienced with children, adolescents, young adults and adults. Clients from 5-70+, male and female, all racial and ethnic groups, all religious orientations. Marital and couples work and parenting focused education. Provide guidance and support for college students struggling/in transition. Private pay. Licensed in Maine. Focus on the process of achieving change and barriers.
(207) 747-3099 View (207) 747-3099
Photo of Kaleigh McAfee, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Maine
Kaleigh McAfee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have supported individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues including sexual trauma, depression, death/dying/grief, identity issues, premarital counseling, infidelity, relational ambivalence, life transitions, and marital conflict.
If you’re ready for change, I’m ready to be with you through it. I'm client-led and allow expansive space for your growth. I value humor, honesty, direct communication, and deep personal connection in the therapeutic relationship. While I’m trained in many types of therapy to provide treatment unique to each client, I gravitate to the deep internal work performed with Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused, Experiential, and Narrative therapies. I am an iRest Yoga Nidra meditation teacher and yoga teacher, and can use this style of meditation or movement collaboratively for self-exploration and/or regulation during sessions.
I have supported individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues including sexual trauma, depression, death/dying/grief, identity issues, premarital counseling, infidelity, relational ambivalence, life transitions, and marital conflict.
If you’re ready for change, I’m ready to be with you through it. I'm client-led and allow expansive space for your growth. I value humor, honesty, direct communication, and deep personal connection in the therapeutic relationship. While I’m trained in many types of therapy to provide treatment unique to each client, I gravitate to the deep internal work performed with Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused, Experiential, and Narrative therapies. I am an iRest Yoga Nidra meditation teacher and yoga teacher, and can use this style of meditation or movement collaboratively for self-exploration and/or regulation during sessions.
(207) 204-3248 View (207) 204-3248
Photo of Debra A Ouimette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Maine
Debra A Ouimette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ThD, LADC, CASAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064  (Online Only)
Pre-marital and Marriage Counseling.
I am a Substance Abuse Professional that blends therapeutic approaches to help each individual recover. I work with each person to help them find solutions to life's problems and reach their fullest potential. I offer tele-health options.I have 30 years experience as an addictions co-occurring therapist and Christian counselor. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment values based therapy to treat addiction problems. Family mediation is available for families in crisis. Couples counseling , individual therapy, mediation,and SAP services for federally licensed drivers are part of my scope of practice. "Every individual is deserving of help, hope, and healing."
Pre-marital and Marriage Counseling.
I am a Substance Abuse Professional that blends therapeutic approaches to help each individual recover. I work with each person to help them find solutions to life's problems and reach their fullest potential. I offer tele-health options.I have 30 years experience as an addictions co-occurring therapist and Christian counselor. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment values based therapy to treat addiction problems. Family mediation is available for families in crisis. Couples counseling , individual therapy, mediation,and SAP services for federally licensed drivers are part of my scope of practice. "Every individual is deserving of help, hope, and healing."
(207) 482-0139 View (207) 482-0139
Photo of Dana A Bontatibus, Counselor in Maine
Dana A Bontatibus
Counselor, LMFT, LCPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I'm passionate about providing therapy to couples/families as the family system is such an important part of our lives.
At times, we all get stuck. Sometimes we worry, sometimes we don't see a way out, and sometimes we feel distant from or in conflict with the ones we love. There is a way through this, but it isn't always obvious. I can help. As a therapist, my job is to help you move beyond these difficult experiences and to re-engage with your most cherished aspirations, values and hopes.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I'm passionate about providing therapy to couples/families as the family system is such an important part of our lives.
At times, we all get stuck. Sometimes we worry, sometimes we don't see a way out, and sometimes we feel distant from or in conflict with the ones we love. There is a way through this, but it isn't always obvious. I can help. As a therapist, my job is to help you move beyond these difficult experiences and to re-engage with your most cherished aspirations, values and hopes.
(207) 808-7271 View (207) 808-7271
Photo of Kim Shaffer, LCPC, Counseling Services LLC, Counselor in Maine
Kim Shaffer, LCPC, Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hermon, ME 04401
Waitlist for new clients
Most of your friends think that you have a great marriage. You often post pictures of your happy family on social media, but deep down you know something is missing and it has been missing for awhile. Every time you try to talk with your partner, you end up in an argument. It seems that one of you is usually yelling and the other shutting down completely or running away.Both of you are left with no resolution to the problem and feeling angry, sad, and alone. You are not sure if therapy will help, but willing to do whatever it takes.
Most of your friends think that you have a great marriage. You often post pictures of your happy family on social media, but deep down you know something is missing and it has been missing for awhile. Every time you try to talk with your partner, you end up in an argument. It seems that one of you is usually yelling and the other shutting down completely or running away.Both of you are left with no resolution to the problem and feeling angry, sad, and alone. You are not sure if therapy will help, but willing to do whatever it takes.
(207) 209-1621 View (207) 209-1621
Photo of Sean Mitchell, Counselor in Maine
Sean Mitchell
Counselor, LCPC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I'm pleased to offer my services in several sectors of therapy for my clients including Personal Therapy, Family Counseling, Couples Therapy, and Marriage Counseling.
Living your best life starts with finding and using the tools you need to build awareness, healthy habits, and a positive outlook. My name is Sean Mitchell, and I look forward to working with you, and embarking on a journey to wellness together. My approach to counseling is based on a humanistic approach that emphasizes the importance of being one's true self in order to lead the most fulfilling life. We all have our own unique ways of looking at the world and this approach involves a core belief that people are good at heart, capable of making the right choices in life and can work towards developing their full potential.
I'm pleased to offer my services in several sectors of therapy for my clients including Personal Therapy, Family Counseling, Couples Therapy, and Marriage Counseling.
Living your best life starts with finding and using the tools you need to build awareness, healthy habits, and a positive outlook. My name is Sean Mitchell, and I look forward to working with you, and embarking on a journey to wellness together. My approach to counseling is based on a humanistic approach that emphasizes the importance of being one's true self in order to lead the most fulfilling life. We all have our own unique ways of looking at the world and this approach involves a core belief that people are good at heart, capable of making the right choices in life and can work towards developing their full potential.
(207) 421-9472 View (207) 421-9472
Photo of Zanita Bohea Zody, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Zanita Bohea Zody
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orono, ME 04473  (Online Only)
I hold an MS & PhD in child, adolescent & family development with a specialty in marriage and family therapy and have devoted the past 20+ years to my work in the eating disorder community.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
I hold an MS & PhD in child, adolescent & family development with a specialty in marriage and family therapy and have devoted the past 20+ years to my work in the eating disorder community.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
(857) 466-2017 View (857) 466-2017
Photo of Jason Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Jason Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a master’s degree from Antioch University. I am passionate about working with couples and individuals who are experiencing a range of challenges including relational distress, infidelity, a lack of intimacy, depression, desire discrepancy and more.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a master’s degree from Antioch University. I am passionate about working with couples and individuals who are experiencing a range of challenges including relational distress, infidelity, a lack of intimacy, depression, desire discrepancy and more.
(203) 625-1468 View (203) 625-1468
Photo of Holly Khiel, Counselor in Maine
Holly Khiel
Counselor, LCPC-c
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Hill, ME 04614
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you’re here to get unstuck. You’re dismayed by the way your problems feel repetitive and difficult to break away from. You spin your wheels in frustration, or are stifled under the weight of a nagging depression. Even in some of your closest relationships, you feel disconnection. You might attempt to numb the pain with substances, TV binges, or endless scrolling, and your attempts to change seem to fade away or just not work. The result is that you often feel hopeless.
Perhaps you’re here to get unstuck. You’re dismayed by the way your problems feel repetitive and difficult to break away from. You spin your wheels in frustration, or are stifled under the weight of a nagging depression. Even in some of your closest relationships, you feel disconnection. You might attempt to numb the pain with substances, TV binges, or endless scrolling, and your attempts to change seem to fade away or just not work. The result is that you often feel hopeless.
(207) 407-5710 View (207) 407-5710
Photo of Cheri Haire, Counselor in Maine
Cheri Haire
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Biddeford, ME 04005  (Online Only)
I am non-binary, polyamorous, and pansexual and love providing support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. I love working with children and teenagers, but have no specific age restrictions on my practice. I'm seeking clients who need to explore their emotions, experiences, and behaviors in an expressive way. Talking only gets us so far, whereas in my experience, use of the Expressive Arts (dance, drama, music, art, and writing) has an ability to get at the deeper stuff.
I am non-binary, polyamorous, and pansexual and love providing support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. I love working with children and teenagers, but have no specific age restrictions on my practice. I'm seeking clients who need to explore their emotions, experiences, and behaviors in an expressive way. Talking only gets us so far, whereas in my experience, use of the Expressive Arts (dance, drama, music, art, and writing) has an ability to get at the deeper stuff.
View
Photo of Jenn Vigue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jenn Vigue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in New Orleans, LA. I am licensed and able to see Maine residents for therapy virtually as well. Working from a trauma-informed lens, I work to facilitate a collaborative and empowering approach to counseling. My theoretical approach stems from a radical social justice paradigm with the incorporation of liberation-based healing practices, expressive arts therapy, feminist, and relational-cultural theory. I work with both individuals and couples, offering a supportive space for personal and relational growth.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in New Orleans, LA. I am licensed and able to see Maine residents for therapy virtually as well. Working from a trauma-informed lens, I work to facilitate a collaborative and empowering approach to counseling. My theoretical approach stems from a radical social justice paradigm with the incorporation of liberation-based healing practices, expressive arts therapy, feminist, and relational-cultural theory. I work with both individuals and couples, offering a supportive space for personal and relational growth.
View
Photo of Kim R. Fonseca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Kim R. Fonseca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064  (Online Only)
Looking within oneself to fully understand your situation is the best way to move forward, because it helps you develop a comprehensive plan and manageable, achievable goals. I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years of experience working with couples, families, adolescents, adults, and children. I graduated from Simmons College of Social Work with a master's degree, and enthusiastically work to help my clients make lasting, visible changes. Together, we can uncover new ways to make meaningful change, by identifying weaknesses and strengths and developing a plan.
Looking within oneself to fully understand your situation is the best way to move forward, because it helps you develop a comprehensive plan and manageable, achievable goals. I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years of experience working with couples, families, adolescents, adults, and children. I graduated from Simmons College of Social Work with a master's degree, and enthusiastically work to help my clients make lasting, visible changes. Together, we can uncover new ways to make meaningful change, by identifying weaknesses and strengths and developing a plan.
(617) 622-5588 View (617) 622-5588
Photo of Elizabeth “Libby” Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Elizabeth “Libby” Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RSP
Verified Verified
Windham, ME 04062  (Online Only)
Struggling to find a therapist who gets it?! I have a passion for working with Creatives, Queers, Misfits, and those deemed “Too Much” or “Overly Sensitive”. Feeling stuck, lost, teary, distant, numb, cranky, sad, or stressed?! Self-discovery and change is possible when one has the opportunity to feel connected with their therapist and both commit to the process. I am committed to a safe space, free of judgement, and familiar with all the ways the experience of difference can take a toll in one’s life. Providing Telehealth state-wide in California and Maine.
Struggling to find a therapist who gets it?! I have a passion for working with Creatives, Queers, Misfits, and those deemed “Too Much” or “Overly Sensitive”. Feeling stuck, lost, teary, distant, numb, cranky, sad, or stressed?! Self-discovery and change is possible when one has the opportunity to feel connected with their therapist and both commit to the process. I am committed to a safe space, free of judgement, and familiar with all the ways the experience of difference can take a toll in one’s life. Providing Telehealth state-wide in California and Maine.
(415) 707-5434 View (415) 707-5434
Photo of Brynna Pawlows - Luminary Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Brynna Pawlows - Luminary Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, ME 04105  (Online Only)
Now accepting AETNA insurance! Let’s get to the bottom of what takes your attention away from the people and things that you love. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate to give you the insight and tools needed to reach your goals. With almost a decade of experience working with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life changes – I am confident psychotherapy can prompt us to discover new ways to deal with life’s difficult days.
Now accepting AETNA insurance! Let’s get to the bottom of what takes your attention away from the people and things that you love. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate to give you the insight and tools needed to reach your goals. With almost a decade of experience working with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life changes – I am confident psychotherapy can prompt us to discover new ways to deal with life’s difficult days.
(207) 994-5374 View (207) 994-5374
Photo of Laura Minch Mclain, Psychologist in Maine
Laura Minch Mclain
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04402  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My goal as a therapist is to help individuals achieve overall health and wellness. I serve clients with eating disorders, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and identity and relationship issues. I believe change is possible, but I also know it can be very difficult and discouraging. I will help you identify and use your strengths to make lasting changes in your life. I believe that understanding and awareness of oneself is the first step in the change process. My goal is to help clients understand why they have not sustained changes in the past and what they can do differently in the future.
Hello and welcome! My goal as a therapist is to help individuals achieve overall health and wellness. I serve clients with eating disorders, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and identity and relationship issues. I believe change is possible, but I also know it can be very difficult and discouraging. I will help you identify and use your strengths to make lasting changes in your life. I believe that understanding and awareness of oneself is the first step in the change process. My goal is to help clients understand why they have not sustained changes in the past and what they can do differently in the future.
(470) 252-4239 View (470) 252-4239
Photo of Caroline Cooper Torres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Caroline Cooper Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Feeling hopeless, dissatisfied or stuck? Change is possible. We all experience life as difficult at times. I provide warm, non-judgemental therapeutic support to people of all walks of life. In therapy I will work with you to examine and develop various aspects of your life-- home, relationships, health, spirituality, creativity-- in order to gain insight, build self-esteem and uncover strengths for navigating life challenges.
Feeling hopeless, dissatisfied or stuck? Change is possible. We all experience life as difficult at times. I provide warm, non-judgemental therapeutic support to people of all walks of life. In therapy I will work with you to examine and develop various aspects of your life-- home, relationships, health, spirituality, creativity-- in order to gain insight, build self-esteem and uncover strengths for navigating life challenges.
(207) 489-4682 View (207) 489-4682
Photo of Ritu J Esbjorn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Ritu J Esbjorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
I bring empathy, kindness, and a wealth of life experience into any conversation you and I might have about the difficulties you're facing. My extensive clinical training and professional experience is part of the well of care I offer; I can help you with coming to terms with anxiety, grief, depression, and shame, as well as supporting you through challenges in relationships, major life transitions, loss and illness. Any issue to do with adoption is completely familiar to me from my years as an active social worker.
I bring empathy, kindness, and a wealth of life experience into any conversation you and I might have about the difficulties you're facing. My extensive clinical training and professional experience is part of the well of care I offer; I can help you with coming to terms with anxiety, grief, depression, and shame, as well as supporting you through challenges in relationships, major life transitions, loss and illness. Any issue to do with adoption is completely familiar to me from my years as an active social worker.
(207) 501-3118 View (207) 501-3118
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.