Honestly, I used to think the same—like, how much can a counselor really help if you’re already struggling? But when we refinanced a few years back, I realized I’d overlooked some things that were impacting our credit. The counselor spotted stuff I’d missed even after hours of research. Sure, some of it’s common sense, but having someone objective dig into your actual situation can make a difference. The accountability part is real too... it’s easy to let things slide when you’re only answering to yourself. Progress is slow either way, but I’d say the outside perspective is worth it for most people.
I totally get what you mean about the accountability part—sometimes I swear my brain just tunes out when it’s only me keeping track. But I do wonder, how much of the advice is really unique to your situation versus just standard stuff? Like, did your counselor actually dig into your specific credit quirks, or was it more like a checklist? I’ve read so many “top 10” lists that I’m half-convinced I could recite them in my sleep... but maybe I’m missing something by not having that outside perspective.
Honestly, I’ve seen both sides. Some counselors just run through the usual “pay on time, don’t max cards” routine, but a good one will actually look at your weird credit blips and dig in. Had a client once whose issue was literally a $12 library fine dragging down her score—no checklist covers that. Sometimes those outside eyes really do catch the stuff you’d never spot on your own.
