Career Counseling Therapists in Ventura, CA

Photo of Lynette Mercado, MS, CRC, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lynette Mercado
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CRC, APCC
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families on various issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral, self-esteem, self-harm, grief, career, life transitions, and many more.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. I have been working in the mental health field for over 21 years and am versified in multicultural aspects of today's society. I have the solution-focused mindset to motivate and inspire you. My goal is to establish a trusting, meaningful, and collaborative relationship with you to help enhance your self-perception, self-confidence, and overall mental wellbeing. My hope is for you to experience sustainable joy and satisfaction while you live your best life.
I work with individuals, couples, and families on various issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral, self-esteem, self-harm, grief, career, life transitions, and many more.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. I have been working in the mental health field for over 21 years and am versified in multicultural aspects of today's society. I have the solution-focused mindset to motivate and inspire you. My goal is to establish a trusting, meaningful, and collaborative relationship with you to help enhance your self-perception, self-confidence, and overall mental wellbeing. My hope is for you to experience sustainable joy and satisfaction while you live your best life.
(805) 572-7614 View (805) 572-7614
Photo of Hong Jeong, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hong Jeong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
I also specialized in treating anxiety due to multicultural issues (loss of identity, career issues, & dysfunctional family dynamics).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
I also specialized in treating anxiety due to multicultural issues (loss of identity, career issues, & dysfunctional family dynamics).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
(213) 769-8307 View (213) 769-8307
Photo of Ivet Castañeda Ruiz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ivet Castañeda Ruiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Hola and Welcome. My name is Ivet Castañeda Ruiz, I have been a practicing therapist for the last 9 years. Throughout the course of my career I have gained an amplitude of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families. I know taking the first step and seeking help may be challenging for some, for that reason I believe in the essence of meeting people where they are. Life is constantly changing around us, the fluidities of life may cause life challenges and obstacles that may result in anxiety, depression, conflict within relationships and/or living inauthentically.
Hola and Welcome. My name is Ivet Castañeda Ruiz, I have been a practicing therapist for the last 9 years. Throughout the course of my career I have gained an amplitude of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families. I know taking the first step and seeking help may be challenging for some, for that reason I believe in the essence of meeting people where they are. Life is constantly changing around us, the fluidities of life may cause life challenges and obstacles that may result in anxiety, depression, conflict within relationships and/or living inauthentically.
(805) 360-3793 View (805) 360-3793
Photo of Josh Manney, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Josh Manney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck, alone, or overwhelmed. Are you looking for new tools to help handle stress? Have you thought to yourself or been told by someone else that you "might have ADHD" or are "Neurodivergent?" I'm here to help! I work with adults (18+) needing help managing Stress, Anxiety, Life Transitions, and Career challenges, and I specialize in working with those who identify as ADHD or Neurodivergent. My practice centers around tailoring my approach to each individual person and their unique needs to help you develop psychological flexibility to handle all that life throws your way.
Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck, alone, or overwhelmed. Are you looking for new tools to help handle stress? Have you thought to yourself or been told by someone else that you "might have ADHD" or are "Neurodivergent?" I'm here to help! I work with adults (18+) needing help managing Stress, Anxiety, Life Transitions, and Career challenges, and I specialize in working with those who identify as ADHD or Neurodivergent. My practice centers around tailoring my approach to each individual person and their unique needs to help you develop psychological flexibility to handle all that life throws your way.
(805) 232-7938 View (805) 232-7938
Photo of Luciane de Greef, MS , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luciane de Greef
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Life is a continuing journey of growth and change. How we handle that growth and change will determine how successful we are in navigating relationships, careers, personal development, and obstacles that we come across in our daily lives. Oftentimes it is difficult to process everything going on in life when you're at the center of it, even when things are going well! Therapy is a resource to help process everything that make us who we are, the good and bad: depression, anxiety, self-confidence, trauma, identity discovery, toxic relationships, aimlessness, conflict with peers/family, career development, loss/grief, and much more.
Life is a continuing journey of growth and change. How we handle that growth and change will determine how successful we are in navigating relationships, careers, personal development, and obstacles that we come across in our daily lives. Oftentimes it is difficult to process everything going on in life when you're at the center of it, even when things are going well! Therapy is a resource to help process everything that make us who we are, the good and bad: depression, anxiety, self-confidence, trauma, identity discovery, toxic relationships, aimlessness, conflict with peers/family, career development, loss/grief, and much more.
(805) 719-7807 View (805) 719-7807
Photo of Tomas Joseph Madrigal, CATC-I, CATC-II, L-13546, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tomas Joseph Madrigal
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATC-I, CATC-II, L-13546
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(805) 232-3895 View (805) 232-3895
Photo of Sharon Burnett - West Valley Counseling Center, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
West Valley Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Our diverse staff are trained to address the specific needs of you and/or your family including trauma recovery, marital and family issues, life transitions and loss, depression, anxiety, abandonment, self-esteem issues, career confusion, and many more.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
Our diverse staff are trained to address the specific needs of you and/or your family including trauma recovery, marital and family issues, life transitions and loss, depression, anxiety, abandonment, self-esteem issues, career confusion, and many more.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
(805) 620-8046 View (805) 620-8046
Photo of Sascha Goldhor - Prima Materia Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Prima Materia Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
Areas I specialize in include grief + loss, life transitions, identity + sexual awakening, career development, relationship difficulties, codependency, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma.
In our sessions together, we'll take a holistic approach providing care + attention to your body, mind and emotions. We will listen to your symptoms, which provide cues to deeper issues of your unconscious, in an effort to alleviate your suffering and guide your Self towards wholeness. My style is collaborative + curious. The pace of our therapy will attune to each client's unique process + needs. Many clients express how our sessions have led to lasting change in their lives.
Areas I specialize in include grief + loss, life transitions, identity + sexual awakening, career development, relationship difficulties, codependency, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma.
In our sessions together, we'll take a holistic approach providing care + attention to your body, mind and emotions. We will listen to your symptoms, which provide cues to deeper issues of your unconscious, in an effort to alleviate your suffering and guide your Self towards wholeness. My style is collaborative + curious. The pace of our therapy will attune to each client's unique process + needs. Many clients express how our sessions have led to lasting change in their lives.
(818) 722-9021 View (818) 722-9021
Photo of Stacey Peyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Peyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
My name is Stacey Peyer and I have been a licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1989. I primarily work with adults. I am also a Certified Pet Loss Specialist. I work with adults who are dealing with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, infertility, LGBTQ concerns, and Pet loss, including anticipatory grief and end of life decisions. I have a great deal of experience supporting social work students (and those studying related fields) in their career journeys.
My name is Stacey Peyer and I have been a licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1989. I primarily work with adults. I am also a Certified Pet Loss Specialist. I work with adults who are dealing with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, infertility, LGBTQ concerns, and Pet loss, including anticipatory grief and end of life decisions. I have a great deal of experience supporting social work students (and those studying related fields) in their career journeys.
(341) 999-4417 View (341) 999-4417
Photo of Jane Twombley, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane Twombley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
My diverse background includes individual and relationship therapy, career counseling, and a technical/managerial career.
I offer one time therapy sessions for you to process your unique challenge or situation. I recognize the benefits of long term therapy and coaching; I also recognize there are times we just need to talk to an objective person about a particular situation or experience. The reasons for a one time session are endless, but some examples are preparing for a tough conversation with your boss or employee, going to a family gathering that may be challenging, last minute review before a job interview, or unraveling a tough conversation you had with your best friend.
My diverse background includes individual and relationship therapy, career counseling, and a technical/managerial career.
I offer one time therapy sessions for you to process your unique challenge or situation. I recognize the benefits of long term therapy and coaching; I also recognize there are times we just need to talk to an objective person about a particular situation or experience. The reasons for a one time session are endless, but some examples are preparing for a tough conversation with your boss or employee, going to a family gathering that may be challenging, last minute review before a job interview, or unraveling a tough conversation you had with your best friend.
(619) 815-1972 View (619) 815-1972
Photo of Kathyann Pierre, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathyann Pierre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93004
With a background in management and employee development, it was a natural transition for me to a career as a therapist.
Hi, I am Kathyann Natalie Pierre, LMFT. It is my belief that our quality of life is directly related to the quality of relationships, ability to maintain relationships, life experiences, and knowledge we gain from our experiences. My use of different therapeutic approaches is based on the individual needs of my clients and on their unique circumstances.
With a background in management and employee development, it was a natural transition for me to a career as a therapist.
Hi, I am Kathyann Natalie Pierre, LMFT. It is my belief that our quality of life is directly related to the quality of relationships, ability to maintain relationships, life experiences, and knowledge we gain from our experiences. My use of different therapeutic approaches is based on the individual needs of my clients and on their unique circumstances.
(442) 264-0647 View (442) 264-0647
Photo of Michael H Kreitsek, MA
Michael H Kreitsek
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
Clients often come to me during a deep life transition of some kind. They are looking for clarity and deeper meaning. They are motivated, and sometimes afraid to change. Issues of grief and death, relationship, career change, loss or aging often show up; a sense of "Who am I? What next? Where am I going? Where have I been?" Many times clients are looking for deeper spiritual awareness, either wanting to renew abandoned practices, or looking for something beyond their past experience. In each case they are looking to connect more directly with life and find methods to do so. They are looking for greater balance, peace and stability.
Clients often come to me during a deep life transition of some kind. They are looking for clarity and deeper meaning. They are motivated, and sometimes afraid to change. Issues of grief and death, relationship, career change, loss or aging often show up; a sense of "Who am I? What next? Where am I going? Where have I been?" Many times clients are looking for deeper spiritual awareness, either wanting to renew abandoned practices, or looking for something beyond their past experience. In each case they are looking to connect more directly with life and find methods to do so. They are looking for greater balance, peace and stability.
(805) 608-3408 View (805) 608-3408
Photo of Jeremy Rhoades, LPCC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeremy Rhoades
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
Attune to moments of heightened awareness in order to move through life with greater ease. Track “breakthrough-clarity" and use it as an inner compass. Embody gentleness towards the nonlinear nature of personal evolution. Activate supportive guides & allies. Increase natural capacities of awareness, curiosity, & receptivity. The Dreamscapes Alchemical Manifestation model (DAM) can help you find your Alchemy Door, build the framework for an individually tailored transformative experience, and embark on a journey of Manifestation- through meaningful internal and external landscapes (Dreamscapes)- by attuning to the Quest for clarity.
Attune to moments of heightened awareness in order to move through life with greater ease. Track “breakthrough-clarity" and use it as an inner compass. Embody gentleness towards the nonlinear nature of personal evolution. Activate supportive guides & allies. Increase natural capacities of awareness, curiosity, & receptivity. The Dreamscapes Alchemical Manifestation model (DAM) can help you find your Alchemy Door, build the framework for an individually tailored transformative experience, and embark on a journey of Manifestation- through meaningful internal and external landscapes (Dreamscapes)- by attuning to the Quest for clarity.
(415) 980-6861 View (415) 980-6861
Photo of Heidi Schlig, LPCC, MA, PPSC, Counselor
Heidi Schlig
Counselor, LPCC, MA, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Heidi, and I'm dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges with compassion and understanding. With over 14 years of experience in counseling, I've worked with individuals of all ages facing a variety of concerns. I believe that everyone has experienced something that shapes who they are today, and I'm passionate about using my own experiences to support others in achieving their goals and finding resilience. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, I'm here to provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, overcome obstacles, and move forward with confidence.
Hello! I'm Heidi, and I'm dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges with compassion and understanding. With over 14 years of experience in counseling, I've worked with individuals of all ages facing a variety of concerns. I believe that everyone has experienced something that shapes who they are today, and I'm passionate about using my own experiences to support others in achieving their goals and finding resilience. Whether you're a child, teen, or adult, I'm here to provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, overcome obstacles, and move forward with confidence.
(909) 280-7652 View (909) 280-7652
Photo of Brenda Mercado, MFT, M, A, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenda Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, M, A
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
Stress is a part of all our lives and manifests in a variety of ways. I provide stress reduction and other counseling modalities for individuals, couples and families. For over 30 years, I have worked in a neurological clinic, medical emergency rooms, hospitals, and psychiatric settings. I have a great deal of confidence working in these settings and in physicians and nurse practitioners. With this experience, I have a lot to offer the people who see me. You are welcome to call for a free consultation.
Stress is a part of all our lives and manifests in a variety of ways. I provide stress reduction and other counseling modalities for individuals, couples and families. For over 30 years, I have worked in a neurological clinic, medical emergency rooms, hospitals, and psychiatric settings. I have a great deal of confidence working in these settings and in physicians and nurse practitioners. With this experience, I have a lot to offer the people who see me. You are welcome to call for a free consultation.
(805) 410-1167 View (805) 410-1167
Photo of Kaelia T Winterstein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaelia T Winterstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist interested in helping those who seek a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings and behaviors - particularly those that prohibit you from being the best version of yourself. I am here to assist those dealing with any/all of life's challenges, including grief, trauma, chronic pain, depression, and anxiety (just to name a few). Whether you are seeking help for yourself individually, or as a couple or family, I look forward to working with you on your treatment goals.
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist interested in helping those who seek a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings and behaviors - particularly those that prohibit you from being the best version of yourself. I am here to assist those dealing with any/all of life's challenges, including grief, trauma, chronic pain, depression, and anxiety (just to name a few). Whether you are seeking help for yourself individually, or as a couple or family, I look forward to working with you on your treatment goals.
(805) 678-8985 View (805) 678-8985
Photo of New Generations Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
New Generations Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
In Person Sessions in Ventura! Welcome to New Generations Counseling Center! Our staff and affiliates are here to help you with your goals. We are gladly accepting Gold Coast (Medi-cal Ventura County)/ Carelon insurance. New Generations Counseling Center was created to serve clients all through Ventura County and the State of California. We consist of associate therapists that are ready to work with you on what is most important to you.
In Person Sessions in Ventura! Welcome to New Generations Counseling Center! Our staff and affiliates are here to help you with your goals. We are gladly accepting Gold Coast (Medi-cal Ventura County)/ Carelon insurance. New Generations Counseling Center was created to serve clients all through Ventura County and the State of California. We consist of associate therapists that are ready to work with you on what is most important to you.
(805) 232-7985 View (805) 232-7985
Photo of Kathleen Ekins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Ekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
(805) 263-1373 View (805) 263-1373
Photo of Stephanie Guzman Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Guzman Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
My name is Stephanie A. Guzman Lopez; I am first generation bilingual (English/Spanish) Latina Licensed Clinical Social worker providing psychotherapy services in California. I use various therapeutic approaches to best support my clients in reaching their mental health goals. I am a client center and use Psychoanalytic/Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, Trauma Focused, and Evidence-Based techniques (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to improve the client's mental health.
My name is Stephanie A. Guzman Lopez; I am first generation bilingual (English/Spanish) Latina Licensed Clinical Social worker providing psychotherapy services in California. I use various therapeutic approaches to best support my clients in reaching their mental health goals. I am a client center and use Psychoanalytic/Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, Trauma Focused, and Evidence-Based techniques (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to improve the client's mental health.
(805) 429-8327 View (805) 429-8327
Photo of Monica Dyer, PsyD(c), Psychological Associate
Monica Dyer
Psychological Associate, PsyD(c)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
The way you've gone through life is not working for you anymore, and you don’t know why. You are ready to explore why you repeat things that are not working for you but you're finding that some issues are difficult to confront alone. I'm here to help. I work with adults, couples, and teens to transform unhelpful beliefs, burdens or habits that keep them stuck. People come to me seeking someone who's done their own work and can help guide them through theirs—someone who is highly trained, compassionate, and honest.
The way you've gone through life is not working for you anymore, and you don’t know why. You are ready to explore why you repeat things that are not working for you but you're finding that some issues are difficult to confront alone. I'm here to help. I work with adults, couples, and teens to transform unhelpful beliefs, burdens or habits that keep them stuck. People come to me seeking someone who's done their own work and can help guide them through theirs—someone who is highly trained, compassionate, and honest.
(805) 422-7350 View (805) 422-7350
1
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.