With consumer credit counseling, you will be able to take the first - and most important - step towards financial security: you will be able to become familiar with your own financial situation. Though it may be uncomfortable to see your financial picture in black and white, identifying your total income, your monthly expenses and your debts is an essential step. Similarly, with consumer credit counseling you will be able to learn to prioritize the debts that you have. By looking at the amount that you owe, identifying the interest rates associated with your credit card debt, you will find that you are able to put the extra money that you have for making payments to your creditors where it will have the greatest benefit on your financial situation.
There are always going to be emergencies - medical expenses, home repairs - and other situations that could impact your financial situation. Having money set aside will help you to avoid taking on more debt.
Of course, consumer credit counseling will also encourage you to avoid taking on any additional debt, particularly when the economic forecast is rather bleak. Rather than planning a vacation or buying a new car, focus on what you can do to create financial security for yourself.