Career Counseling Therapists in Columbia, MD
Special interests include ADHD in high school, college and at work, conducting career assessment, job coaching, and developing work/life balance.
I am the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Orchid Center for ADHD and Executive Functioning and have over a decade of experience in private practice. Prior experience has taken me through a variety of settings including EAP, community mental health, inpatient hospitals, universities, and public schools. I am skilled and diagnosis, assessment and treatment of ADHD, mood & anxiety disorders. I will work collaboratively with you to identify goals and objectives, and we will use evidence-based methods to achieve them. With proper diagnosis and intervention, ADHD is treatable! Kids and adults with ADHD can reach their full potential.
Special interests include ADHD in high school, college and at work, conducting career assessment, job coaching, and developing work/life balance.
I am the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Orchid Center for ADHD and Executive Functioning and have over a decade of experience in private practice. Prior experience has taken me through a variety of settings including EAP, community mental health, inpatient hospitals, universities, and public schools. I am skilled and diagnosis, assessment and treatment of ADHD, mood & anxiety disorders. I will work collaboratively with you to identify goals and objectives, and we will use evidence-based methods to achieve them. With proper diagnosis and intervention, ADHD is treatable! Kids and adults with ADHD can reach their full potential.
A growth mindset is belief you can develop abilities. I am committed to help my clients develop such a mindset as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland. My career path has afforded me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. My approach is one that is grounded in unconditional positive regard, respect, and empathy. I specialize in adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, childhood trauma, self-esteem issues and everyday life stressors. With over 9 years of individual and group counseling, I look forward to continuing to positively impact the lives of others.
A growth mindset is belief you can develop abilities. I am committed to help my clients develop such a mindset as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland. My career path has afforded me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. My approach is one that is grounded in unconditional positive regard, respect, and empathy. I specialize in adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, childhood trauma, self-esteem issues and everyday life stressors. With over 9 years of individual and group counseling, I look forward to continuing to positively impact the lives of others.
Stephanie Avinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046 (Online Only)
Whether you’re coming to connect for career counseling, relationship recovery, or clinical supervision, I want to hear your story! I believe in building rapport and creating a trust-based relationship.
Have the past few years felt like a never-ending rollercoaster ride and you're over it? Or maybe things are going well on the surface, but you've felt anxious for a long time. Kids, marriage, work- the responsibilities just keep piling up, and you're downright overwhelmed. You know that finding balance is important, but you often wonder what that even means. Imagine Wellness Counseling is here to help. Let's work together to see how you can get off this ride and start the journey towards living your best life.
Whether you’re coming to connect for career counseling, relationship recovery, or clinical supervision, I want to hear your story! I believe in building rapport and creating a trust-based relationship.
Have the past few years felt like a never-ending rollercoaster ride and you're over it? Or maybe things are going well on the surface, but you've felt anxious for a long time. Kids, marriage, work- the responsibilities just keep piling up, and you're downright overwhelmed. You know that finding balance is important, but you often wonder what that even means. Imagine Wellness Counseling is here to help. Let's work together to see how you can get off this ride and start the journey towards living your best life.
I have 15 years experience working with adults with Depression and other Mood Disorders; Anxiety Disorders; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder due to childhood trauma; Dissociative Disorders; and Career and Academic Concerns.
I have openings Daytimes on Tue, Wed, Thu. / / Therapy is about you. Therapy is about what brings you peace and makes you happy. Have you been wondering what went wrong? Why things seem fine on the surface, but you just can’t get yourself to feel completely good inside? Why you feel down, worry too much, or do things that bring relief at the time, but ultimately make you unhappy? Many people feel this way.
I have 15 years experience working with adults with Depression and other Mood Disorders; Anxiety Disorders; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder due to childhood trauma; Dissociative Disorders; and Career and Academic Concerns.
I have openings Daytimes on Tue, Wed, Thu. / / Therapy is about you. Therapy is about what brings you peace and makes you happy. Have you been wondering what went wrong? Why things seem fine on the surface, but you just can’t get yourself to feel completely good inside? Why you feel down, worry too much, or do things that bring relief at the time, but ultimately make you unhappy? Many people feel this way.
Adult Columbia Personal Therapy/Career Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Some of the tools I use in my practice include: guided imagery, hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), relaxation techniques, cognitive retraining, teaching life skills: communication, assertiveness, time and stress management, personality and career inventories, etc.
Take charge of your life...manage communications, thinking, emotions, behaviors and goals! When you and I meet in session, it will be a unique experience designed to meet what works for your needs and goals. I view each person in a holistic framework that encompasses cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects. The goal of our work together is to achieve a sense of balance in your life where all aspects of you are working together in harmony to achieve wellness. My training and experience encompass an eclectic approach that combines the newest research and time tested theories, strategies, and techniques.
Some of the tools I use in my practice include: guided imagery, hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), relaxation techniques, cognitive retraining, teaching life skills: communication, assertiveness, time and stress management, personality and career inventories, etc.
Take charge of your life...manage communications, thinking, emotions, behaviors and goals! When you and I meet in session, it will be a unique experience designed to meet what works for your needs and goals. I view each person in a holistic framework that encompasses cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects. The goal of our work together is to achieve a sense of balance in your life where all aspects of you are working together in harmony to achieve wellness. My training and experience encompass an eclectic approach that combines the newest research and time tested theories, strategies, and techniques.
Felisha C Pierce
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MFC-MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Feel free to reach out to me for needs that span beyond relationships such as individual counseling, trauma, career aspects, addiction, helping professionals, anxiety, or depression.
Providing collaborative efforts to help assist individuals who may be navigating through challenging times and are in need of support. In life there are moments of uncertainty and unpredictability that may yield the need for specific guidance that is unique to the individual or family. I am able to offer warm concern that is focused on achieving personal change and growth goals. My ultimate purpose is to connect, understand, and grow therapeutic relationships that are tailored to the needs and desires of the client as a tool to encourage, motivate, and empower the building of self-growth and effective development.
Feel free to reach out to me for needs that span beyond relationships such as individual counseling, trauma, career aspects, addiction, helping professionals, anxiety, or depression.
Providing collaborative efforts to help assist individuals who may be navigating through challenging times and are in need of support. In life there are moments of uncertainty and unpredictability that may yield the need for specific guidance that is unique to the individual or family. I am able to offer warm concern that is focused on achieving personal change and growth goals. My ultimate purpose is to connect, understand, and grow therapeutic relationships that are tailored to the needs and desires of the client as a tool to encourage, motivate, and empower the building of self-growth and effective development.
Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
My name is Diane Brumfield and I am a psychotherapist and owner of Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC in Columbia, Maryland. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a nationally certified school counselor with over 20 years of experience. I provide counseling for adults, children, adolescents, and families. Throughout my career, I have worked in private practice and school settings providing individual, group and family therapy. I also offer educational consulting services for families in need of assistance through the IEP process or are in need of behavioral and academic support from their school system.
My name is Diane Brumfield and I am a psychotherapist and owner of Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, LLC in Columbia, Maryland. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a nationally certified school counselor with over 20 years of experience. I provide counseling for adults, children, adolescents, and families. Throughout my career, I have worked in private practice and school settings providing individual, group and family therapy. I also offer educational consulting services for families in need of assistance through the IEP process or are in need of behavioral and academic support from their school system.
David Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with men and women struggling with anxiety, depression, career transitions, relationships, men's issues, anger issues, etc.
Have you been through a lot and must be seen as the strong one? Are you expected to just “figure it out?” Are you holding the weight of relationships, the family, finances, work, etc.? It can get heavy with everyone always wanting something from you but you don’t get the same in return. Well let’s go ahead and create a space just for YOU, and do something you rarely get to do, talk about it!
I specialize in working with men and women struggling with anxiety, depression, career transitions, relationships, men's issues, anger issues, etc.
Have you been through a lot and must be seen as the strong one? Are you expected to just “figure it out?” Are you holding the weight of relationships, the family, finances, work, etc.? It can get heavy with everyone always wanting something from you but you don’t get the same in return. Well let’s go ahead and create a space just for YOU, and do something you rarely get to do, talk about it!
Having begun my career at a community mental health clinic, I have experience working with a diverse population of adult clients from many socioeconomic, racial, and cultural backgrounds and with a variety of presenting concerns and challenges.
With all of the challenges that life can throw at us, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless. Life satisfaction and happiness might seem like distant goals with no clear path forward to reach them. You may find that you are spending more and more time stuck in your own head, perseverating on your struggles and acting as your own harshest critic. To me, therapy rooted in compassion and empathy can be a fantastic tool for navigating these challenges and discovering meaning and self-empowerment.
Having begun my career at a community mental health clinic, I have experience working with a diverse population of adult clients from many socioeconomic, racial, and cultural backgrounds and with a variety of presenting concerns and challenges.
With all of the challenges that life can throw at us, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless. Life satisfaction and happiness might seem like distant goals with no clear path forward to reach them. You may find that you are spending more and more time stuck in your own head, perseverating on your struggles and acting as your own harshest critic. To me, therapy rooted in compassion and empathy can be a fantastic tool for navigating these challenges and discovering meaning and self-empowerment.
Barbara Bogley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Currently, I provide telehealth therapy to adult women ages 18-70 years old experiencing depression, anxiety, burnout from career, family responsibilities, and relationships, problems in their marriage, family or personal life, chronic health/medical issues that impact mental health, and trauma from current or past experiences.
Hello and welcome! My name is Barbara and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) based in Frederick County, Maryland. I received my Masters in Clinical Social Work (with a minor in Program Administration) from the University of Maryland in Baltimore in 2001 and have been in private practice for 10 plus years. Before starting my own practice, I previously worked in in-patient, intensive out-patient, out-patient, crisis center and EAP settings.
Currently, I provide telehealth therapy to adult women ages 18-70 years old experiencing depression, anxiety, burnout from career, family responsibilities, and relationships, problems in their marriage, family or personal life, chronic health/medical issues that impact mental health, and trauma from current or past experiences.
Hello and welcome! My name is Barbara and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) based in Frederick County, Maryland. I received my Masters in Clinical Social Work (with a minor in Program Administration) from the University of Maryland in Baltimore in 2001 and have been in private practice for 10 plus years. Before starting my own practice, I previously worked in in-patient, intensive out-patient, out-patient, crisis center and EAP settings.
**ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN PERSON OR VIRTUAL** I believe everyone has within them the strength, ability, and desire to fulfill his or her own potential. My job as a therapist is to help you to recognize, find, and unlock your inner strengths through the therapeutic and self-discovery process. If you or a loved one are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, impacted by a recent or prolonged trauma, or are just having difficulty navigating through the daily stresses of life, I can help. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and safe haven environment for your journey of self-discovery and growth. ***Telehealth Available***
**ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN PERSON OR VIRTUAL** I believe everyone has within them the strength, ability, and desire to fulfill his or her own potential. My job as a therapist is to help you to recognize, find, and unlock your inner strengths through the therapeutic and self-discovery process. If you or a loved one are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, impacted by a recent or prolonged trauma, or are just having difficulty navigating through the daily stresses of life, I can help. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and safe haven environment for your journey of self-discovery and growth. ***Telehealth Available***
15 Second Videos
Lynn S. Owens
Allison Klein
Sandra Anderson
Jake Ferentz
Gabrielle “Ms. Gabby” Barrington
Carilyn Rego
GY COUNSELING, LLC
Mary D Hill
Bernadette Pruitt
Maricielo Saldarriaga
Lina Faryal Kotsoeva
Michael Fleg
Confidence in You services
Rosalind Ceasar
Erika Conley
Sophie Hans
Aimee Sullivan
Adele Feild
Erick J Sowell
Jamie Bailey
Matt Mazick
If you are currently struggling or know someone who is, I am here to help. You've already taken a positive step in trying to improve your life, by finding a supportive path. With over 23 years of experience as a licensed clinical psychologist, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals dealing with many concerns hindering their growth, such as: relationship concerns, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, life transitions, pain management, career counseling, personal growth, military, law enforcement/EMS, LGBTQIA+. Many years psychological assessment experience and supervision to doctoral students in clinical settings.
If you are currently struggling or know someone who is, I am here to help. You've already taken a positive step in trying to improve your life, by finding a supportive path. With over 23 years of experience as a licensed clinical psychologist, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals dealing with many concerns hindering their growth, such as: relationship concerns, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, life transitions, pain management, career counseling, personal growth, military, law enforcement/EMS, LGBTQIA+. Many years psychological assessment experience and supervision to doctoral students in clinical settings.
Brenda Reiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
I have experience treating children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues including, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting, ADHD, life, coaching, mid-life stressors, job transitions, cancer diagnosis, and retirement.
Sometimes life can be difficult and getting help from a professional can be beneficial. I approach therapy as a collaborative process aimed at helping clients find their own way to the changes they desire. Within the context of each person's life, I seek to help clients integrate various aspects of mind and body to heal and enrich their lives. I create an environment where you will feel emotionally safe to talk freely about all aspects of your life.
I have experience treating children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues including, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting, ADHD, life, coaching, mid-life stressors, job transitions, cancer diagnosis, and retirement.
Sometimes life can be difficult and getting help from a professional can be beneficial. I approach therapy as a collaborative process aimed at helping clients find their own way to the changes they desire. Within the context of each person's life, I seek to help clients integrate various aspects of mind and body to heal and enrich their lives. I create an environment where you will feel emotionally safe to talk freely about all aspects of your life.
I work with clients who are dealing with different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and self-esteem issues.
Welcome! Do you feel as though you have no one to talk to? As a counselor, I feel it is important to be objective, supportive and to provide a safe space where you feel heard and validated. Counseling can help you deal with what is preventing you from achieving your life's dreams and goals. My therapy style is a collaborative relationship where the client feels respected, and we work towards discovering strategies and solutions that works best for the client. I consider it a blessing to journey alongside of clients who are ready to move towards living a more intentional and fulfilling life.
I work with clients who are dealing with different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and self-esteem issues.
Welcome! Do you feel as though you have no one to talk to? As a counselor, I feel it is important to be objective, supportive and to provide a safe space where you feel heard and validated. Counseling can help you deal with what is preventing you from achieving your life's dreams and goals. My therapy style is a collaborative relationship where the client feels respected, and we work towards discovering strategies and solutions that works best for the client. I consider it a blessing to journey alongside of clients who are ready to move towards living a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Deitra Fant
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
Some of my areas of expertise include depressive and anxiety disorders, complicated grief, career/life transitions, family issues, self-esteem/self-worth deficiencies, substance issues, and relationship challenges.
A Counselor with a passion for helping the stuck, "GET UNSTUCK" by empowering clients to rewrite the narratives in their life that are hindering their forward movement and their ability to realize their best self. Remaining ever mindful that “every client is unique” and facing unique life challenges and mental health concerns, I develop and employ individualized treatment plans undergirded by an integrative personal counseling theory that interweaves and leverages the concepts and treatment modalities integral to, but not limited to, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and positive psychology.
Some of my areas of expertise include depressive and anxiety disorders, complicated grief, career/life transitions, family issues, self-esteem/self-worth deficiencies, substance issues, and relationship challenges.
A Counselor with a passion for helping the stuck, "GET UNSTUCK" by empowering clients to rewrite the narratives in their life that are hindering their forward movement and their ability to realize their best self. Remaining ever mindful that “every client is unique” and facing unique life challenges and mental health concerns, I develop and employ individualized treatment plans undergirded by an integrative personal counseling theory that interweaves and leverages the concepts and treatment modalities integral to, but not limited to, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and positive psychology.
Lauren Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Lauren believes that trust and respect are the keys to developing the kind of relationships that allow her to reach and help her clients through therapy. Throughout her career as a therapist, Lauren has fostered these dynamics with clients across the age and socio-economic spectrum, tailoring her therapeutic style and techniques to the needs of each individual. She digs deep with her clients to engage with the issues underlying their struggles, and she works with them to develop the tools that they need to live healthier, more productive, and self-actualized lives.
Lauren believes that trust and respect are the keys to developing the kind of relationships that allow her to reach and help her clients through therapy. Throughout her career as a therapist, Lauren has fostered these dynamics with clients across the age and socio-economic spectrum, tailoring her therapeutic style and techniques to the needs of each individual. She digs deep with her clients to engage with the issues underlying their struggles, and she works with them to develop the tools that they need to live healthier, more productive, and self-actualized lives.
Deitra Fant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S, LPC-AS
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
De'Trece Lavender
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, CCATP, CAGCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Other specialties include grief, trauma, anxiety, support during a life transition, interpersonal relationships, children, adolescents, caregiver/foster parent support, expressive arts therapy, spirituality and career development.
De'Trece (affectionately called Ms.Dee) comes with over 20 years experience as an arts educator and administrator, music therapist and mental health clinician. In addition to providing professional development trainings and consulting services around social emotional learning, diversity/inclusion in urban educational settings, and arts integration, she is passionate about supporting educators, clergy and other helping professionals around issues of identity, spirituality, compassion fatigue and burnout, trauma and grief.
Other specialties include grief, trauma, anxiety, support during a life transition, interpersonal relationships, children, adolescents, caregiver/foster parent support, expressive arts therapy, spirituality and career development.
De'Trece (affectionately called Ms.Dee) comes with over 20 years experience as an arts educator and administrator, music therapist and mental health clinician. In addition to providing professional development trainings and consulting services around social emotional learning, diversity/inclusion in urban educational settings, and arts integration, she is passionate about supporting educators, clergy and other helping professionals around issues of identity, spirituality, compassion fatigue and burnout, trauma and grief.
Darius Gwynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
My specialties are working with individuals who are coping with anger, anxiety, career transition, intimacy, and life adjustment issues while considering the cultural and environmental factors that may affect your progress.
Do you have concerns about your ability to cope with anger, anxiety, career transitions, and/or intimacy and interpersonal issues? Are you feeling disconnected? Often, we can find ourselves in a “life loop” that can make us feel like we’re on autopilot. Sometimes those feelings of anger, anxiety, and disconnection can feel so strong that we feel isolated and alone. But the truth is that you are not alone and do not have to navigate those issues by yourself. You can free yourself of your issues! You can live the life that you desire!
My specialties are working with individuals who are coping with anger, anxiety, career transition, intimacy, and life adjustment issues while considering the cultural and environmental factors that may affect your progress.
Do you have concerns about your ability to cope with anger, anxiety, career transitions, and/or intimacy and interpersonal issues? Are you feeling disconnected? Often, we can find ourselves in a “life loop” that can make us feel like we’re on autopilot. Sometimes those feelings of anger, anxiety, and disconnection can feel so strong that we feel isolated and alone. But the truth is that you are not alone and do not have to navigate those issues by yourself. You can free yourself of your issues! You can live the life that you desire!
See more therapy options for Columbia
Nearby Career Counseling Therapists Searches for Columbia
- Burtonsville
- Catonsville
- Clarksville
- Elkridge
- Ellicott City
- Fulton
- Hanover
- Laurel
- Maryland City
- North Laurel
- Sandy Spring
- Severn
Career Counseling Therapists
How do I know if I need career counseling?
Determining whether a career counselor is needed involves assessing one's current career and identifying what changes can be made to improve one's overall quality of life. In particular, feelings of loss of motivation, fatigue, anxiety, depression, procrastination, or ongoing levels of high stress can all be indicative of a need for career-related counseling. In addition, individuals changing jobs may want the decision-making support or self-reflection opportunities provided by a career counselor.
Who can benefit from career counseling?
Anyone can benefit from the self-reflection, skill development, and stress management techniques that career counseling can provide. However, individuals who are feeling overwhelmed or burnt out with their current job and individuals considering a major career change may particularly benefit from career counseling to improve their wellbeing. Additionally, individuals who are facing issues in their current job, such as coworker relationship challenges or not meeting performance goals, may benefit from the perspective that a career counselor can provide. College-age or young professionals may also uniquely benefit from career counseling as they make key decisions surrounding education and job training that will impact their career trajectory.
How long does career counseling typically last?
The length of career counseling can vary greatly depending on the needs of the individual and what type of support they are seeking. Career coaching or advising services—which serve clients in a specific, goal-oriented capacity—often last for a shorter duration and are sometimes only a single session or a few sessions in length. In contrast, career counseling as part of a more integrative therapeutic relationship with a counselor may last longer, particularly if the issues faced by the client are longstanding and/or more complex in nature; in such cases, individuals may expect therapy to last multiple months or longer.
How to prepare for career counseling?
Clients can prepare for career counseling sessions by outlining the specific topics they would like to address with the counselor, such as current job challenges or hopes for the future of their career. Compiling one's thoughts on such topics often requires reflection on one's career and future goals, which in itself can be beneficial for session preparation. Clients may also want to put together a list of questions they would like to ask the counselor, particularly if the career counselor they are seeing has particular expertise in a given career area. Conducting research into potential future jobs, training opportunities, or support resources in one's area may also help clients prepare for career counseling by providing them with a background of what resources are available in their area.