Career Counseling Therapists in Mount Holly, NC

Photo of Mark C Harol, MS, LCM, NCC
Mark C Harol
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCM, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120  (Online Only)
Having retired from the Air Force after a fulfilling 22-year career, and having led a successful company for 12 years, I bring a wealth of life and career counseling experience to my practice.
My professional mission is centered on supporting individuals in cultivating healthy relationships and achieving fulfilling lives. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, anger management, or navigating challenging circumstances that leave you feeling adrift, I'm here to assist. My focus is supportive, practical, and centered around your healing. With specialized training in Sex Therapy and sex addiction, I bring extensive expertise to addressing these sensitive areas.
Having retired from the Air Force after a fulfilling 22-year career, and having led a successful company for 12 years, I bring a wealth of life and career counseling experience to my practice.
My professional mission is centered on supporting individuals in cultivating healthy relationships and achieving fulfilling lives. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, anger management, or navigating challenging circumstances that leave you feeling adrift, I'm here to assist. My focus is supportive, practical, and centered around your healing. With specialized training in Sex Therapy and sex addiction, I bring extensive expertise to addressing these sensitive areas.
(980) 350-2013 View (980) 350-2013
Photo of Sharon Hoyng, MS, LPC, PLLC
Sharon Hoyng
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NC 28120
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with children and adults.I have twenty years of experience in the mental health field. I know it's difficult to make that decision to ask for help.My job is to put you at ease, really listen, and help you find a way to move forward, whether that means resolving an issue from the past; changing a behavior or creating a plan for the future. My goal is to improve your quality of life. What's most important is the what happens outside therapy. The best client is ready and willing to make that change.
I enjoy working with children and adults.I have twenty years of experience in the mental health field. I know it's difficult to make that decision to ask for help.My job is to put you at ease, really listen, and help you find a way to move forward, whether that means resolving an issue from the past; changing a behavior or creating a plan for the future. My goal is to improve your quality of life. What's most important is the what happens outside therapy. The best client is ready and willing to make that change.
(704) 665-0328 View (704) 665-0328
Photo of Barbara Brown, MSW, LCSW, RDT, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RDT, CFSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NC 28120
I believe connection is key when choosing a therapist! I have been described as genuine, down to earth, and easy to talk with by both youth and adults. My creative and versatile therapeutic approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing in order to highlight your strengths and passions during therapy. Together, we can work towards your goals so that you can feel better soon. I look forward to meeting you and getting started. Access my schedule now online to get started www.creativeperspectivestherapy.com
I believe connection is key when choosing a therapist! I have been described as genuine, down to earth, and easy to talk with by both youth and adults. My creative and versatile therapeutic approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing in order to highlight your strengths and passions during therapy. Together, we can work towards your goals so that you can feel better soon. I look forward to meeting you and getting started. Access my schedule now online to get started www.creativeperspectivestherapy.com
(704) 759-6525 View (704) 759-6525
Photo of Kelly Justin Busher, MSW, LCSWA, PSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Justin Busher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, PSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NC 28120
Saturday appointments & online scheduling! Hello, I am an empathetic therapist focused on improving the lives of my clients working with teens(15+) and adults! I am warm, genuine, and down to earth. I connect with clients providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for us to talk. I am passionate about and enjoy art with a background in graphic design, painting and visual arts. If desired, we can include art in your therapy sessions. In my free time I enjoy being outdoors gardening, hiking, and spending time with family.
Saturday appointments & online scheduling! Hello, I am an empathetic therapist focused on improving the lives of my clients working with teens(15+) and adults! I am warm, genuine, and down to earth. I connect with clients providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for us to talk. I am passionate about and enjoy art with a background in graphic design, painting and visual arts. If desired, we can include art in your therapy sessions. In my free time I enjoy being outdoors gardening, hiking, and spending time with family.
(704) 610-1833 View (704) 610-1833
Photo of Joseph Lee Royalty, MAEdS, LCMHCA, LPN, Counselor
Joseph Lee Royalty
Counselor, MAEdS, LCMHCA, LPN
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm glad you are here! I am pleased to announce that I am accepting new patients and Etna insurance now. The first step in getting mentally healthy is accepting you need help. The next is finding a counselor that listens, understands and is nonjudgmental. I meet people where they are in life. I enjoy the healing process of counseling and the personal growth that occurs when working with clients. Have you been suffering from high amounts of stress, habitual anxiety and depressed moods that result in emotional and physical fatigue? You are not alone, I understand, and I can help!
Hello! I'm glad you are here! I am pleased to announce that I am accepting new patients and Etna insurance now. The first step in getting mentally healthy is accepting you need help. The next is finding a counselor that listens, understands and is nonjudgmental. I meet people where they are in life. I enjoy the healing process of counseling and the personal growth that occurs when working with clients. Have you been suffering from high amounts of stress, habitual anxiety and depressed moods that result in emotional and physical fatigue? You are not alone, I understand, and I can help!
(704) 396-5760 View (704) 396-5760
Photo of Travis Bobb - Huntersville Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huntersville Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120
Huntersville Counseling Center provides counseling and psychological services to individuals in the Charlotte area. We promote individual growth and psychological health. We understand that each client is a unique individual influenced by their culture, family, values, and personal identity.
Huntersville Counseling Center provides counseling and psychological services to individuals in the Charlotte area. We promote individual growth and psychological health. We understand that each client is a unique individual influenced by their culture, family, values, and personal identity.
(704) 276-6417 View (704) 276-6417
Photo of Cathy Ward, MA, LCMHC
Cathy Ward
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NC 28120  (Online Only)
Anxiety can make you feel stuck, but there is hope that you can feel better. We all experience stressors that show up in our life in different ways including: anxiety, depression, anger, fear, unhappiness, unfulfilling relationships, conflict, or emotional pain. My passion is working with individuals to better manage their anxiety, fears and anger. How different would life be if you were able to learn new ways to work with your anxiety instead of trying to "eliminate" anxious thoughts and feelings completely? You can learn and apply practical strategies that help you tolerate the ups and downs of life.
Anxiety can make you feel stuck, but there is hope that you can feel better. We all experience stressors that show up in our life in different ways including: anxiety, depression, anger, fear, unhappiness, unfulfilling relationships, conflict, or emotional pain. My passion is working with individuals to better manage their anxiety, fears and anger. How different would life be if you were able to learn new ways to work with your anxiety instead of trying to "eliminate" anxious thoughts and feelings completely? You can learn and apply practical strategies that help you tolerate the ups and downs of life.
(704) 313-1411 View (704) 313-1411
Photo of Iris Whitlock, LCMHC , LPC
Iris Whitlock
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120
Not accepting new clients
Currently, I am not accepting new clients & referring to therapists, at the same practice, Jane Williams and Kytaina Gabriel. Are you tired of being a prisoner to your own negative thoughts, trying everything to ease your sadness and frustration, but feel like you are going in circles? Maybe you've tried self-help books, talking to friends, staying busy, but to no avail. Have you gone through something recently or in the past, which was traumatic, where you felt keeping to yourself was safest, & doing whatever you could to not get hurt again? Maybe you feel unsure about the world, anxious, unmotivated, and don't know why.
Currently, I am not accepting new clients & referring to therapists, at the same practice, Jane Williams and Kytaina Gabriel. Are you tired of being a prisoner to your own negative thoughts, trying everything to ease your sadness and frustration, but feel like you are going in circles? Maybe you've tried self-help books, talking to friends, staying busy, but to no avail. Have you gone through something recently or in the past, which was traumatic, where you felt keeping to yourself was safest, & doing whatever you could to not get hurt again? Maybe you feel unsure about the world, anxious, unmotivated, and don't know why.
(704) 901-8851 View (704) 901-8851
Photo of J'niya Cureton, MSQP, LCMHC, Counselor
J'niya Cureton
Counselor, MSQP, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120
I'm J'Niya Cureton, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Owner of Exhale Integrative Services. As a scholar in Walden University's Ph.D CES program, I specialize in Trauma & Crisis. With over 10 years of experience, I've supported individuals in managing mental health symptoms, focusing on emotional stabilization and fostering positive outlooks on life through coping skills and support building.
I'm J'Niya Cureton, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Owner of Exhale Integrative Services. As a scholar in Walden University's Ph.D CES program, I specialize in Trauma & Crisis. With over 10 years of experience, I've supported individuals in managing mental health symptoms, focusing on emotional stabilization and fostering positive outlooks on life through coping skills and support building.
(980) 261-3807 View (980) 261-3807

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alexxis Cook-Graham, LCMHC-A, LPC-A, Counselor
Alexxis Cook-Graham
Counselor, LCMHC-A, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054  (Online Only)
Feeling out of sorts? At A.S. Counseling and Consulting, my objective is to tailor counseling to your unique wellness objectives, whether they pertain to your personal or professional life. If you’re a male, female, gender non conforming individual seeking support with life changes, career adjustments, or relationship challenges. If you find yourself wondering how to do things differently, in hard to break patterns of thinking, or even saying things like “I gotta get my life together”, I am here to help.
Feeling out of sorts? At A.S. Counseling and Consulting, my objective is to tailor counseling to your unique wellness objectives, whether they pertain to your personal or professional life. If you’re a male, female, gender non conforming individual seeking support with life changes, career adjustments, or relationship challenges. If you find yourself wondering how to do things differently, in hard to break patterns of thinking, or even saying things like “I gotta get my life together”, I am here to help.
(704) 253-8145 View (704) 253-8145
Photo of Dr. Lisabeth Medlock Life By Design Coaching, PhD, BCC, CDCS
Dr. Lisabeth Medlock Life By Design Coaching
PhD, BCC, CDCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
I also offer career assessment and resume development.
Now accepting new clients. My goal, as a coach, is to help you move from where you are to where you want to be to get unstuck and change perceptions, habits and behaviors to move forward. Rooted in positive psychology, I use a strengths based approach to help you achieve goals, no matter what challenges you face. If you are are asking questions...Why am I not my best self or happy in my life? Why can't I seem to reach my goals? Why can't I figure out what I want?...... coaching can begin a path to change. I specialize in career and life transitions for neurodiverse (e.g., ADHD) clients.
I also offer career assessment and resume development.
Now accepting new clients. My goal, as a coach, is to help you move from where you are to where you want to be to get unstuck and change perceptions, habits and behaviors to move forward. Rooted in positive psychology, I use a strengths based approach to help you achieve goals, no matter what challenges you face. If you are are asking questions...Why am I not my best self or happy in my life? Why can't I seem to reach my goals? Why can't I figure out what I want?...... coaching can begin a path to change. I specialize in career and life transitions for neurodiverse (e.g., ADHD) clients.
(864) 803-3490 View (864) 803-3490
Photo of Adrianne R Pinkney, PhD, MEd
Adrianne R Pinkney
PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208
My personal experience and professional training has prepared me to coach on variety of issues: Integrative Wellness, Mindfulness, Career coaching, Codependency, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Narcissistic Abuse, Family and Relationship Issues, Leadership Coaching, Childhood trauma, Men and Women of Color, Bullying, Difficult Teens, LGBTQ challenges, and Body Image and Health.
Life doesn't get better by chance, it get's better by CHOICE and CHANGE! As an Integrative Wellness & Life Coach, I believe you have the power to change your life! I partner with you as a guide and accountability partner as you do the work to heal yourself. I support clients in healing core issues and negative patterns while empowering them to change their life with effective tools, techniques, and specific action plans. Successful clients gain freedom from the past and overcome habits and patterns that block fulfillment in all areas of their lives. Let's get to work!
My personal experience and professional training has prepared me to coach on variety of issues: Integrative Wellness, Mindfulness, Career coaching, Codependency, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Narcissistic Abuse, Family and Relationship Issues, Leadership Coaching, Childhood trauma, Men and Women of Color, Bullying, Difficult Teens, LGBTQ challenges, and Body Image and Health.
Life doesn't get better by chance, it get's better by CHOICE and CHANGE! As an Integrative Wellness & Life Coach, I believe you have the power to change your life! I partner with you as a guide and accountability partner as you do the work to heal yourself. I support clients in healing core issues and negative patterns while empowering them to change their life with effective tools, techniques, and specific action plans. Successful clients gain freedom from the past and overcome habits and patterns that block fulfillment in all areas of their lives. Let's get to work!
(704) 727-2902 View (704) 727-2902
Photo of Misty C. Marlowe, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Misty C. Marlowe
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
My practice includes work with families, couples, and individuals ages 3 and older. My office is small and I work part-time because I also teach at colleges in Charlotte and surrounding areas. My clients have told me they feel very comfortable working with me and they appreciate my direct and results-oriented approach. Although I assist my clients with a wide variety of problems and challenges, my specialties include play therapy, trauma, and work/life issues. I love my job and I am always happy to help!
My practice includes work with families, couples, and individuals ages 3 and older. My office is small and I work part-time because I also teach at colleges in Charlotte and surrounding areas. My clients have told me they feel very comfortable working with me and they appreciate my direct and results-oriented approach. Although I assist my clients with a wide variety of problems and challenges, my specialties include play therapy, trauma, and work/life issues. I love my job and I am always happy to help!
(704) 966-7362 View (704) 966-7362
Photo of Chris Holloman, MA, NCC, LCMHC, GCDF, Counselor
Chris Holloman
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, GCDF
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
I've worked as a counselor, teacher, and career advisor.
I understand that it can be difficult to take the first step towards counseling. I’m here to help with what you are experiencing, and I welcome the opportunity to assist you with your needs. In my work, I strive authentically to help my clients to achieve their goals. I accept you where you are nonjudgmentally, work with you to identify practical strategies to overcome struggles you are encountering, and help you to gather tools needed to thrive in life. I’m happy to serve as a safe place to assist you in getting to the places where you’d like to go.
I've worked as a counselor, teacher, and career advisor.
I understand that it can be difficult to take the first step towards counseling. I’m here to help with what you are experiencing, and I welcome the opportunity to assist you with your needs. In my work, I strive authentically to help my clients to achieve their goals. I accept you where you are nonjudgmentally, work with you to identify practical strategies to overcome struggles you are encountering, and help you to gather tools needed to thrive in life. I’m happy to serve as a safe place to assist you in getting to the places where you’d like to go.
(704) 459-5455 View (704) 459-5455
Photo of Dr. Gregory S Phipps, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Dr. Gregory S Phipps
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
Now accepting new clients in-person and online. I serve and support individuals dealing with mental health concerns, developmental issues, and life transitions. I believe all individuals have inherent worth, seek meaning/purpose, and strive to be their best selves. My job is to work with you and help you empower yourself to understand and enact these principles. I am heavily strength-based, meaning I try to help you find your personal strengths and skills, so you can learn to manage life's many challenges well. I draw ideas and techniques from Adlerian Individual Psychology, CBT, expressive arts, and narrative therapy.
Now accepting new clients in-person and online. I serve and support individuals dealing with mental health concerns, developmental issues, and life transitions. I believe all individuals have inherent worth, seek meaning/purpose, and strive to be their best selves. My job is to work with you and help you empower yourself to understand and enact these principles. I am heavily strength-based, meaning I try to help you find your personal strengths and skills, so you can learn to manage life's many challenges well. I draw ideas and techniques from Adlerian Individual Psychology, CBT, expressive arts, and narrative therapy.
(336) 804-8326 View (336) 804-8326
Photo of Steven C. Land, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven C. Land
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I enjoy working with individuals who want to find out who they are and where they want to go. I specialize in working with people going through major life transitions, desire to have a stronger sense of identity, and asking serious questions about their view of life. Because of this, I specialize in working with those who are in the LGBTQ+ community, Gen Z and Millennials, and those impacted by major changes such as moving away from home, divorce, job changes, and more. Further, I work closely with those going through spiritual questioning, no matter their faith.
I enjoy working with individuals who want to find out who they are and where they want to go. I specialize in working with people going through major life transitions, desire to have a stronger sense of identity, and asking serious questions about their view of life. Because of this, I specialize in working with those who are in the LGBTQ+ community, Gen Z and Millennials, and those impacted by major changes such as moving away from home, divorce, job changes, and more. Further, I work closely with those going through spiritual questioning, no matter their faith.
(980) 414-8383 View (980) 414-8383
Photo of Wendy L. Johnston, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy L. Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Not accepting new clients
I also focus on career and life changes, woman's issues, and overall wellness and improved quality of life.
Are you struggling with anxiety and stress, depression, or past trauma or abuse? Do you need support to move forward and reclaim your life? If so, you're not alone. Because I've fought through my own issues in therapy, I understand that it takes courage to ask for help. As your therapist, it's my pledge to be non-judgmental, present, and authentic as I join with you, support you, and provide effective tools and strategies for change.
I also focus on career and life changes, woman's issues, and overall wellness and improved quality of life.
Are you struggling with anxiety and stress, depression, or past trauma or abuse? Do you need support to move forward and reclaim your life? If so, you're not alone. Because I've fought through my own issues in therapy, I understand that it takes courage to ask for help. As your therapist, it's my pledge to be non-judgmental, present, and authentic as I join with you, support you, and provide effective tools and strategies for change.
(980) 276-2417 View (980) 276-2417
Photo of Molly Halbrooks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Halbrooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012
In person sessions in the Charlotte area, telehealth across North Carolina and Georgia. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? I work with adults who have experienced traumatic events, are facing life transitions such as divorce, new parenting, and career changes; individuals struggling with anxiety; and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past experiences.
In person sessions in the Charlotte area, telehealth across North Carolina and Georgia. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? I work with adults who have experienced traumatic events, are facing life transitions such as divorce, new parenting, and career changes; individuals struggling with anxiety; and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past experiences.
(704) 397-4742 View (704) 397-4742
Photo of Madison Reynolds, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Madison Reynolds
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, difficulty with life transitions, overwhelmed with stress or trouble choosing a career path? I know life can become difficult at times but you are not alone. I strive to provide a safe environment for my clients to freely express themselves in order to grow and heal. I work with my clients to find the best approaches that will help them reach their individual goals to better their mental health, well-being, and future.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, difficulty with life transitions, overwhelmed with stress or trouble choosing a career path? I know life can become difficult at times but you are not alone. I strive to provide a safe environment for my clients to freely express themselves in order to grow and heal. I work with my clients to find the best approaches that will help them reach their individual goals to better their mental health, well-being, and future.
View
Photo of Jasmine Moore-Clark, LCSW, LMSW, MSW  , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Moore-Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208
I currently specialize in helping individuals to cope with Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, Low Self Esteem & Lack of Self Confidence, Identity Crisis, Couple Related Issues, Family Conflict, and Career Guidance.
My counseling approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. There is no greater joy (for me) than helping individuals to overcome mental and emotional barriers/ traumas that impede overall health & well-being. I believe that we are the “Author of our story” and our personal voyage is to own the "Pen" that writes “Our” story. It is important that my clients are provided a safe space, free of judgement, and are given an environment to express themselves. I am committed as a Clinical Therapist to create an emotional environment where change and healing is possible.
I currently specialize in helping individuals to cope with Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, Low Self Esteem & Lack of Self Confidence, Identity Crisis, Couple Related Issues, Family Conflict, and Career Guidance.
My counseling approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. There is no greater joy (for me) than helping individuals to overcome mental and emotional barriers/ traumas that impede overall health & well-being. I believe that we are the “Author of our story” and our personal voyage is to own the "Pen" that writes “Our” story. It is important that my clients are provided a safe space, free of judgement, and are given an environment to express themselves. I am committed as a Clinical Therapist to create an emotional environment where change and healing is possible.
(704) 327-0109 View (704) 327-0109

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.