Career Counseling Therapists in Brookfield, IL

Photo of Diana M Rivera - Interactive Counseling Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Interactive Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
Hey there, I am Diana, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I have ten years of experience as a therapist. Chicago-born, bicultural, Spanish-speaking, culturally sensitive, and proud Latina. I treat adults, adolescents, children, first responders, and couples. I specialize in working with those who have experienced complex trauma. I have a safe space for you to unload those stressors when life can get tricky. Let's explore those challenges such as depression, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, anger issues, and self-harm behaviors. Working with me, you will learn tools and techniques to manage depressed mood, stress, and anxiety.
Hey there, I am Diana, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I have ten years of experience as a therapist. Chicago-born, bicultural, Spanish-speaking, culturally sensitive, and proud Latina. I treat adults, adolescents, children, first responders, and couples. I specialize in working with those who have experienced complex trauma. I have a safe space for you to unload those stressors when life can get tricky. Let's explore those challenges such as depression, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, anger issues, and self-harm behaviors. Working with me, you will learn tools and techniques to manage depressed mood, stress, and anxiety.
(708) 741-2317 View (708) 741-2317
Photo of Loredana Kratzer, LCPC , CRC, Counselor
Loredana Kratzer
Counselor, LCPC , CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513  (Online Only)
At the core of our happiness and restoration are the relationships we build with ourselves and the ones around us. I believe collaboration, empathy, and safety are the foundations of a successful therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with clients, I strive to cultivate a stable therapeutic environment in order to help you resolve pain, conflict, discouragement, and tension by identifying your strengths, building your sense of self and setting goals that bring clarity, direction, and acceptance in your life.
At the core of our happiness and restoration are the relationships we build with ourselves and the ones around us. I believe collaboration, empathy, and safety are the foundations of a successful therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with clients, I strive to cultivate a stable therapeutic environment in order to help you resolve pain, conflict, discouragement, and tension by identifying your strengths, building your sense of self and setting goals that bring clarity, direction, and acceptance in your life.
(708) 290-3286 View (708) 290-3286
Photo of Penny Taylor, MDiv, MSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penny Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, MSW, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
Waitlist for new clients
Availability opening in August - call today. Puzzled about life, family, work, or friends? Not sure how to move forward with life transitions? Are issues of aging impacting your happiness? Willing to try a unique approach? I am a clinical therapist that listens and thinks differently than others. The goal is to understand who you are in your family/society and how those structures impact your life. Take time to reflect on and identify the patterns that create anxiety in your life while learning new techniques to process stress. Enjoy a supportive, non-judgmental environment, a place where you can transform.
Availability opening in August - call today. Puzzled about life, family, work, or friends? Not sure how to move forward with life transitions? Are issues of aging impacting your happiness? Willing to try a unique approach? I am a clinical therapist that listens and thinks differently than others. The goal is to understand who you are in your family/society and how those structures impact your life. Take time to reflect on and identify the patterns that create anxiety in your life while learning new techniques to process stress. Enjoy a supportive, non-judgmental environment, a place where you can transform.
(708) 578-8457 View (708) 578-8457
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Wurster - CC Wellness Solutions, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
CC Wellness Solutions
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513  (Online Only)
Are you or your adolescent/young adult child going through a major life transition and finding it challenging to move forward? Maybe you are simply feeling stuck, like you lost your road map? I am here to help you find that map and guide you on your healing journey. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, and simply helping you navigate through life’s sometimes rocky terrain. In order to regain your footing, we will work together to identify root causes, roadblocks, and sources of stress and/or fear that can stop you in your path and hinder your progress.
Are you or your adolescent/young adult child going through a major life transition and finding it challenging to move forward? Maybe you are simply feeling stuck, like you lost your road map? I am here to help you find that map and guide you on your healing journey. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, and simply helping you navigate through life’s sometimes rocky terrain. In order to regain your footing, we will work together to identify root causes, roadblocks, and sources of stress and/or fear that can stop you in your path and hinder your progress.
(708) 381-2698 View (708) 381-2698
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(708) 627-4500 View (708) 627-4500
Photo of Michelle Main, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Main
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
Feeling anxious, angry, depressed, isolated from friends and family? Dealing with a difficult life situation or trying to break bad habits, you just can't seem to shake? You're not alone. I believe that everybody has the ability to heal from the pain of the past, face the challenges of today, and go beyond the hurdles of tomorrow. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way.
Feeling anxious, angry, depressed, isolated from friends and family? Dealing with a difficult life situation or trying to break bad habits, you just can't seem to shake? You're not alone. I believe that everybody has the ability to heal from the pain of the past, face the challenges of today, and go beyond the hurdles of tomorrow. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way.
(630) 318-2951 View (630) 318-2951
Photo of Megan John, LCPC, CRC, Counselor
Megan John
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
We are all on this journey to find meaning in life while alleviating suffering. We want change, but don’t always know how to make it happen. Without realizing it, we may have developed an inner voice that is self-defeating, and habits that are holding us back or causing us to feel stuck in the same patterns. Therapy is an opportunity to grow, heal, and activate long-lasting change. By fostering a mindful and cognitive-behavioral approach, we can tune into our inner world to better understand who we are and how we function in our relationships. When we deepen our understanding of the self we can truly heal and show up authentically.
We are all on this journey to find meaning in life while alleviating suffering. We want change, but don’t always know how to make it happen. Without realizing it, we may have developed an inner voice that is self-defeating, and habits that are holding us back or causing us to feel stuck in the same patterns. Therapy is an opportunity to grow, heal, and activate long-lasting change. By fostering a mindful and cognitive-behavioral approach, we can tune into our inner world to better understand who we are and how we function in our relationships. When we deepen our understanding of the self we can truly heal and show up authentically.
(773) 770-5970 View (773) 770-5970
Photo of Yadira Chavez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yadira Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513
Waitlist for new clients
As a bilingual Latina and child of immigrant parents, I strive to provide a safe space for clients of all backgrounds and experiences. I am here to offer acceptance and support while helping clients navigate and cope with life’s challenges. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to therapy and I find it important to explore specific strategies and tools that work for clients and their goals. I have experience working in community behavioral health and have extensive knowledge of mental health needs.
As a bilingual Latina and child of immigrant parents, I strive to provide a safe space for clients of all backgrounds and experiences. I am here to offer acceptance and support while helping clients navigate and cope with life’s challenges. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to therapy and I find it important to explore specific strategies and tools that work for clients and their goals. I have experience working in community behavioral health and have extensive knowledge of mental health needs.
(312) 345-6297 View (312) 345-6297

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Myriah Vargo, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Myriah Vargo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
I see adults, couples, teens & parents struggling with behavioral, relational, mood& career challenges.
Do you find yourself thinking that those around you seem to be happier, more carefree, easier motivated, or are more confident? Does life seem difficult and full of unattainable goals? Maybe you are hoping to make changes in how your family or romantic relationships are functioning. Or, you are hoping to find a judgment-free space to process hurtful experiences or stuck patterns in your life that have proven difficult to sort out on your own. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping adults and teens accomplish these goals. My treatment style matches your personality and symptoms, with my quick sense of humor
I see adults, couples, teens & parents struggling with behavioral, relational, mood& career challenges.
Do you find yourself thinking that those around you seem to be happier, more carefree, easier motivated, or are more confident? Does life seem difficult and full of unattainable goals? Maybe you are hoping to make changes in how your family or romantic relationships are functioning. Or, you are hoping to find a judgment-free space to process hurtful experiences or stuck patterns in your life that have proven difficult to sort out on your own. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping adults and teens accomplish these goals. My treatment style matches your personality and symptoms, with my quick sense of humor
(630) 686-7572 View (630) 686-7572
Photo of Jaleesa Pirtle, LCPC, Counselor
Jaleesa Pirtle
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchester, IL 60154  (Online Only)
I’m also experienced in assisting clients in educational/career support to help them obtain their personal goals.
The journey to healing can feel overwhelming. But it's never too late to start. I’m so grateful you chose yourself today. I offer non-judgmental acceptance and unconditional positive regard while we explore the experiences that brought you to this point in life. You may be at the intersection of many dilemmas and I am here to help you process thoughts, feelings and behaviors that impact your view of yourself and the world. It’s my honor to join you in this transformational time and I will meet you where you are to provide the best support and guidance tailored to your individual needs through compassion, empathy and empowerment.
I’m also experienced in assisting clients in educational/career support to help them obtain their personal goals.
The journey to healing can feel overwhelming. But it's never too late to start. I’m so grateful you chose yourself today. I offer non-judgmental acceptance and unconditional positive regard while we explore the experiences that brought you to this point in life. You may be at the intersection of many dilemmas and I am here to help you process thoughts, feelings and behaviors that impact your view of yourself and the world. It’s my honor to join you in this transformational time and I will meet you where you are to provide the best support and guidance tailored to your individual needs through compassion, empathy and empowerment.
(872) 278-3578 View (872) 278-3578
Photo of Elizabeth Tarabour, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Tarabour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525  (Online Only)
It's my job to help you through each step - including the beginning! Therapy with me is a collaborative and nonjudgmental process.
Can't sleep? Let's talk about it! I love working with people who are new to or curious about therapy. Sessions are dedicated times where you can openly share what's going on in your life and in your brain. Do you need to process by exploring your family's D&D alignments or equating your co-workers to the 2010 Blackhawks roster? Let's do it. Your therapy sessions will be specific to you - there are no right or wrong answers. Together we can figure out what you need to feel better and work on getting you there. All you have to do is show up and be willing to try things.
It's my job to help you through each step - including the beginning! Therapy with me is a collaborative and nonjudgmental process.
Can't sleep? Let's talk about it! I love working with people who are new to or curious about therapy. Sessions are dedicated times where you can openly share what's going on in your life and in your brain. Do you need to process by exploring your family's D&D alignments or equating your co-workers to the 2010 Blackhawks roster? Let's do it. Your therapy sessions will be specific to you - there are no right or wrong answers. Together we can figure out what you need to feel better and work on getting you there. All you have to do is show up and be willing to try things.
(708) 847-5488 View (708) 847-5488
Photo of Crystal Campos, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Campos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
Change is hard and as we get older we are faced with inevitable changes in life. Those can include a new job, a death in our family, change in careers or even becoming a parent. Life transitions, grief and traumatic experiences can feel overwhelming and can cause a lot of suffering. It can feel especially difficult when we don’t have a support system that helps us feel safe, validate or heard. It is important to be able to build self-compassion and find coping skills that allow us to respond to life’s adversities.
Change is hard and as we get older we are faced with inevitable changes in life. Those can include a new job, a death in our family, change in careers or even becoming a parent. Life transitions, grief and traumatic experiences can feel overwhelming and can cause a lot of suffering. It can feel especially difficult when we don’t have a support system that helps us feel safe, validate or heard. It is important to be able to build self-compassion and find coping skills that allow us to respond to life’s adversities.
(708) 726-3754 View (708) 726-3754
Photo of Peggy Burns, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Are you ready for a change? Do you want to take the first step? You cry and don't know why you are crying. Your thoughts are filled with "If I could just go to the gym, go for a walk, find a new job, lose weight (fill in the blanks) I would feel better." But how does it start when you don't even feel like getting out of bed in the morning? Was there a recent loss in your life and it's hard to talk about it or share it with other friends and family because they want you to move on. Is there a change in your marriage, your job, or transition from one stage to the next? Are you feeling scared, lonely or stuck? It's time, let's talk.
Are you ready for a change? Do you want to take the first step? You cry and don't know why you are crying. Your thoughts are filled with "If I could just go to the gym, go for a walk, find a new job, lose weight (fill in the blanks) I would feel better." But how does it start when you don't even feel like getting out of bed in the morning? Was there a recent loss in your life and it's hard to talk about it or share it with other friends and family because they want you to move on. Is there a change in your marriage, your job, or transition from one stage to the next? Are you feeling scared, lonely or stuck? It's time, let's talk.
(708) 292-4558 View (708) 292-4558
Photo of Melinda Lupfer Yachnin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Melinda Lupfer Yachnin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
I see therapy as a way for you to get free of the habits and perspectives that bind you, so that you can create the life you really want. So much of what makes us suffer is the chasm between how we think things ought to be and how they actually are. Therapy is an ideal way to reconcile these differences, to identify tools that will help you cope with challenges and make the most of your strengths. I use existential and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy to work with clients on issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress and career concerns.
I see therapy as a way for you to get free of the habits and perspectives that bind you, so that you can create the life you really want. So much of what makes us suffer is the chasm between how we think things ought to be and how they actually are. Therapy is an ideal way to reconcile these differences, to identify tools that will help you cope with challenges and make the most of your strengths. I use existential and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy to work with clients on issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress and career concerns.
(312) 789-5410 View (312) 789-5410
Photo of Farah Huq, LCPC
Farah Huq
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
My clinical expertise includes anxiety, addictions, family of origin and cultural identity issues, career/work matters, life transitions, working with expatriates and men over the age of 30 who are experiencing life transitions, and relationship issues.
Sometimes we do not know where our strengths lie. It is when we are in a room with an empathic person focusing on our needs and issues, we can then access our strengths and move forward. I firmly believe everyone has it in themselves to be self-aware and address elements that are causing disharmony in their lives. My goal is to offer clients a safe and nonjudgmental environment where they can freely express themselves and just be. My approach is collaborative based on mutual respect, kindness, and empathy. Encompassing a person centered style I focus on understanding you as an individual and helping you gain insight and flourish.
My clinical expertise includes anxiety, addictions, family of origin and cultural identity issues, career/work matters, life transitions, working with expatriates and men over the age of 30 who are experiencing life transitions, and relationship issues.
Sometimes we do not know where our strengths lie. It is when we are in a room with an empathic person focusing on our needs and issues, we can then access our strengths and move forward. I firmly believe everyone has it in themselves to be self-aware and address elements that are causing disharmony in their lives. My goal is to offer clients a safe and nonjudgmental environment where they can freely express themselves and just be. My approach is collaborative based on mutual respect, kindness, and empathy. Encompassing a person centered style I focus on understanding you as an individual and helping you gain insight and flourish.
(331) 253-4540 View (331) 253-4540
Photo of Cindy Thelen, LCPC, CT, Counselor
Cindy Thelen
Counselor, LCPC, CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
Many of life's natural events - such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, job/career changes, relationship issues, health problems, midlife concerns and aging - can uncover feelings of deep loss, confusion, disillusionment, or emptiness.
I offer caring, insightful, professional help in navigating through experiences of grief, loss & life transitions. Maybe you’re facing acute grief brought on by a recent loss. Or perhaps you’re living with the cumulative effects of losses long past yet still painfully present. These experiences can be catalysts for profound growth. It would be my privilege to assist you in identifying and gently letting go of the obstacles to more satisfying, full and authentic living.
Many of life's natural events - such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, job/career changes, relationship issues, health problems, midlife concerns and aging - can uncover feelings of deep loss, confusion, disillusionment, or emptiness.
I offer caring, insightful, professional help in navigating through experiences of grief, loss & life transitions. Maybe you’re facing acute grief brought on by a recent loss. Or perhaps you’re living with the cumulative effects of losses long past yet still painfully present. These experiences can be catalysts for profound growth. It would be my privilege to assist you in identifying and gently letting go of the obstacles to more satisfying, full and authentic living.
(630) 733-1939 View (630) 733-1939
Photo of Joanna Klimek, MS, LCPC
Joanna Klimek
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558  (Online Only)
My Clients: I specialize in working with emerging adults and adults, specifically focusing on students, professionals, and entrepreneurs dealing with stress, anxiety, and executive functioning challenges. My clients often seek to improve relationships, alleviate symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety and Depression, and gain clarity in their pursuit of academic, personal, and career goals. I help my clients develop self-awareness and improve emotional intelligence, as well as create healthier habits, and learn effective strategies to handle life transitions. My aim is to create an environment that fosters motivation and provides mental clarity.
My Clients: I specialize in working with emerging adults and adults, specifically focusing on students, professionals, and entrepreneurs dealing with stress, anxiety, and executive functioning challenges. My clients often seek to improve relationships, alleviate symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety and Depression, and gain clarity in their pursuit of academic, personal, and career goals. I help my clients develop self-awareness and improve emotional intelligence, as well as create healthier habits, and learn effective strategies to handle life transitions. My aim is to create an environment that fosters motivation and provides mental clarity.
(708) 286-5388 View (708) 286-5388
Photo of Julie Skokna, LCPC, RN, NCC, EMDR, therapy
Julie Skokna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RN, NCC, EMDR, therapy
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525  (Online Only)
Ever feel like you just Can't Do It Anymore! Or you would like to improve your work and personal relationships? At times we get to this point and know it's time to reach out for SUPPORT. Time for change. I work with those who may have experienced difficult childhood events, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or other mental health disorders that create stress keeping you from enjoying your life. I can teach you techniques to create the calm you require to pursue your career or relationship dreams. You can prepare for the next life challenge, even if it's scary or seems impossible.
Ever feel like you just Can't Do It Anymore! Or you would like to improve your work and personal relationships? At times we get to this point and know it's time to reach out for SUPPORT. Time for change. I work with those who may have experienced difficult childhood events, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or other mental health disorders that create stress keeping you from enjoying your life. I can teach you techniques to create the calm you require to pursue your career or relationship dreams. You can prepare for the next life challenge, even if it's scary or seems impossible.
(630) 448-8912 View (630) 448-8912
Photo of Kenneth Maxey, EdD, MS, LCPC, CRC, Counselor
Kenneth Maxey
Counselor, EdD, MS, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154
My goal as a therapist is to try and help people see their circumstances, their world and maybe even themselves a little differently than before they walked through my door. I believe that therapy can be truly transformative when one is fully committed to the process, a commitment I try to support and encourage by establishing a relationship built on trust and respect. I primarily utilize family and individually focused therapy and employ the methods of ACT, DBT and CBT therapies in an effort to meet each individual where they are and make their introduction to the therapeutic process as seamless as possible.
My goal as a therapist is to try and help people see their circumstances, their world and maybe even themselves a little differently than before they walked through my door. I believe that therapy can be truly transformative when one is fully committed to the process, a commitment I try to support and encourage by establishing a relationship built on trust and respect. I primarily utilize family and individually focused therapy and employ the methods of ACT, DBT and CBT therapies in an effort to meet each individual where they are and make their introduction to the therapeutic process as seamless as possible.
(708) 498-3671 View (708) 498-3671
Photo of Hiram And Gina White - THAT Life, MA, Pastoral Counselor
THAT Life
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Broadview, IL 60155  (Online Only)
T.H.A.T LIFE was created to see people make a profound change to live their best LIFE now. Our goal is to help individuals and families overcome obstacles and transition through life’s challenges. Are you ready to break generational curses? Are you sick and tired of past drama causing daily trauma. Through the use of words and strategies, individuals and families will undergo a profound change that creates the best version of themselves in order to achieve success.
T.H.A.T LIFE was created to see people make a profound change to live their best LIFE now. Our goal is to help individuals and families overcome obstacles and transition through life’s challenges. Are you ready to break generational curses? Are you sick and tired of past drama causing daily trauma. Through the use of words and strategies, individuals and families will undergo a profound change that creates the best version of themselves in order to achieve success.
(815) 743-3130 View (815) 743-3130
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.