Credit Counseling Services?

Q: Could anyone tell me of any experiences they might have had with Consumer Credit Counseling Services? I am currently indebted for $14,000. While this number is weighing heavily on me, it has not yet caused financial catastrophe. I am however feeling uncomfortable with the lack of savings and the debt load. I am working on paying them off and am currently meeting all obligations. However, I am not that far from the edge either. I am considering seeking assistance with CCCS but would like to know more about them. Has anyone gone? Do they only help drastic cases such as people about to file bankruptcy, etc? Does it work? Anything would be helpful.

A: I have no direct experience but a co-worker of mine did and what she said was along the lines of, they take control of your finances- you close all your credit and you make one payment to them which goes to the creditors. You cannot get more credit while you're dealing with them. I'm not sure what happens to your credit rating afterwards. I'm under the impression that you shouldn't take this step unless bankruptcy or total out-of-control downward spiral are imminent. Looking forward to other posters with better info,

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