A good credit counseling service will treat you with respect, have certified credit counselors to assist you in developing an action plan around your needs, be accredited through the BSI, have a good record with the Better Business Bureau, offer financial education, and have depth of experience. Such agencies will have the contacts with creditors and the experience working with people like you to make a Debt Management Program a positive experience for all parties. We also recommend you do your own independent research but be wary of new, fly-by-night debt management and debt settlement companies. Remember that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.