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Credit Counselors

SOC 13-2071.00Job Zone 4 · Considerable Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers consumer credit and debt counseling practice in nonprofit, agency, and financial services settings, from supervised intake and budget drafting through independent case management, creditor negotiation, and organizational leadership of counseling programs.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Client financial data — collect and organize under direct supervision during intake interviews conducted by telephone or in person.
  2. Income and expense calculations — perform using spreadsheet software to determine a client's available monthly income under guided review.
  3. Credit reports and basic financial documents — review and summarize key items with oversight in a consumer credit counseling office.
  4. Debt management program rules and service policies — explain to clients using approved scripts and standardized materials under supervisor direction.
  5. General financial topics such as credit report ratings and collection actions — describe accurately to clients using agency-approved reference guides.
  6. Preliminary debt repayment priorities — identify by applying standard protocols to distinguish high-interest obligations from lower-priority debts.
  7. Client intake data — enter accurately into database user interface and query software following established data-entry procedures.
  8. Active listening techniques — apply during client interviews to capture relevant financial details and flag concerns for senior counselor review.
  9. Basic budget worksheets — draft for client review using office suite or spreadsheet software under the direction of an experienced counselor.
  10. Consumer protection laws and bankruptcy basics — reference correctly when responding to routine client questions in supervised counseling sessions.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Monthly income and debt obligation calculations — conduct independently using financial analysis software to assess a client's repayment capacity across a standard caseload.
  2. Comprehensive debt management plans and spending budgets — create for clients with common financial profiles, adapting templates to individual goals and creditor requirements.
  3. Client financial situations — assess routinely by reviewing income, assets, debts, credit reports, and expense data gathered through in-person and telephone interviews.
  4. Debt repayment sequencing strategies — apply independently, prioritizing obligations to prevent bankruptcy or foreclosure while reducing overall cost to the client.
  5. Service options including debt management enrollment, loan programs, and budget adjustments — explain clearly and compare objectively to help clients make informed decisions.
  6. Creditor concession policies and negotiation parameters — communicate accurately to clients and apply during routine creditor correspondence on behalf of caseload clients.
  7. Written counseling summaries and client action plans — prepare using word processing software, maintaining accuracy and professional tone for client files and agency records.
  8. Time management techniques — apply to balance a multi-client caseload, meeting session deadlines and follow-up commitments with reduced supervisory oversight.
  9. Financial education topics such as wage attachments and consumer protection law — deliver to individual clients or small groups using presentation software in agency settings.
  10. Social perceptiveness — demonstrate by recognizing client emotional or situational stressors during counseling sessions and adjusting communication approach accordingly.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex client financial situations involving multiple creditors, irregular income, or pending legal action — assess autonomously using full review of financial records, credit reports, and ERP or financial analysis software.
  2. Individualized debt management and financial recovery plans — design for non-routine cases, integrating bankruptcy considerations, foreclosure prevention strategies, and long-term budget restructuring.
  3. Negotiation with creditors on behalf of clients — conduct independently to secure concessions such as reduced interest rates, waived fees, or modified repayment terms.
  4. Strategic recommendations for meeting financial goals — formulate and present to clients by synthesizing deductive and inductive reasoning across multiple financial scenarios.
  5. Critical judgment on appropriate intervention type — exercise across the full scope of cases, distinguishing clients suited for debt management programs from those requiring referral to legal or bankruptcy counsel.
  6. Client financial literacy gaps — diagnose and address through targeted counseling using tailored learning strategies calibrated to each client's background and comprehension level.
  7. Information retrieval and search software — use proficiently to research current creditor policies, interest rate programs, regulatory changes, and available financial assistance resources.
  8. Inductive reasoning — apply to identify emerging financial risk patterns across a caseload and adapt counseling strategies before clients reach crisis points.
  9. Professional written reports and case documentation — produce independently at high quality, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and agency audit requirements.
  10. Network conferencing software and remote counseling platforms — use effectively to deliver full-scope financial counseling services to clients in diverse geographic or access-limited circumstances.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Agency-wide credit counseling competency frameworks and training curricula — develop and implement to elevate counselor performance across all job levels and service lines.
  2. Organizational debt management program policies and creditor relationship strategies — set and refine in coordination with executive leadership to optimize client outcomes and agency viability.
  3. Complex ethical and legal dilemmas encountered in consumer credit counseling practice — resolve at the organizational level, establishing precedents that guide practitioner judgment across the agency.
  4. Cross-functional teams of counselors, financial analysts, and compliance officers — lead and coordinate to deliver integrated financial wellness services at organizational scale.
  5. Performance data from financial analysis and ERP systems — analyze at the aggregate level to identify service gaps, benchmark counselor effectiveness, and drive continuous quality improvement.
  6. Strategic partnerships with creditors, nonprofit networks, and regulatory agencies — cultivate and manage to expand client access to concession programs, loan resources, and legal referral pathways.
  7. Emerging trends in consumer debt, bankruptcy law, and economic conditions — monitor and translate into updated agency protocols, staff learning strategies, and client-facing educational resources.
  8. Organizational budget, funding streams, and resource allocation decisions — oversee to sustain and scale high-quality counseling services within regulatory and accreditation requirements.
  9. Public-facing financial education initiatives and community outreach programs — design and champion to advance financial literacy goals beyond individual client interactions at a sector level.
  10. Mentorship and professional development structures for counseling staff — establish and sustain, modeling advanced judgment, integrity, and empathy as organizational standards of practice.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-generated budget templates — applies pre-built AI outputs to scaffold basic spending plans for clients, reviewing each line item against the client's stated income and expenses before presenting the plan Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Credit report summarization — submits client credit report data to an AI tool to extract key delinquencies and balances, then reads the summary aloud to the client while verifying accuracy against the source document Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Debt repayment scenario modeling — directs an AI calculator to generate multiple payoff sequences (e.g., avalanche vs. snowball), then interprets the cost and timeline tradeoffs for the client using plain language Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Client intake preparation — uses an AI assistant to pre-populate financial assessment forms from uploaded documents, freeing session time for active listening and clarifying questions rather than manual data entry Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Policy explanation drafting — prompts an AI tool to produce plain-language summaries of creditor concession policies or debt management program rules, then edits for accuracy and adapts tone to the individual client Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Financial situation assessment — orchestrates AI-assisted analysis of income, assets, debts, and expenses to surface risk flags before the counseling session, then applies professional judgment to prioritize consequences such as foreclosure or bankruptcy Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Personalized debt management plan authorship — directs an AI drafting tool through iterative plan construction, retaining ownership of goal-setting decisions and ensuring recommendations align with the client's values and capacity to follow through Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Cross-channel client communication — uses AI writing assistance to produce consistent written follow-up summaries and action-item lists after counseling sessions, editing each output to reflect the nuance of the individual conversation Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  4. Time-savings reallocation — redirects the 80-plus percent of session-prep time recovered through AI data aggregation toward deeper active listening and motivational interviewing with clients Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Counseling workflow architecture — designs office-wide protocols that determine which credit counseling subtasks are delegated to AI tools (data aggregation, scenario math, document drafting) versus reserved for human judgment (prioritization of dire consequences, emotional support, ethical disclosure) Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. AI output quality governance — establishes review checkpoints and error-rate thresholds for AI-generated financial summaries and repayment models, ensuring regulatory compliance and client data accuracy across the full caseload Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Complex case escalation choreography — identifies the boundary conditions under which AI-produced debt prioritization recommendations require override, documenting those decisions to build institutional knowledge about AI limitation patterns in credit counseling contexts Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 3034
Augment share: 95%
Time saved: 81.7%
AI autonomy: 3.23
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Speaking
Score: 48.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Data Science and Analysis
data_science_and_analysis
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication16 statements
Emerging
  1. Client intake summaries — documents basic financial details gathered during initial client interviews using standardized templates Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Debt program explanation — describes debt management program rules and enrollment steps to clients using plain language during introductory consultations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Active listening practice — restates client-reported financial concerns to confirm understanding before proceeding with assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Written client notes — records client contact information and basic debt balances accurately in case management systems O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Credit report walkthrough — explains credit report ratings and negative entries to clients in accessible terms, addressing questions as they arise O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creditor negotiation correspondence — drafts written communications to creditors outlining client payment proposals and supporting financial documentation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Financial topic briefings — conveys concepts such as bankruptcy laws, wage attachments, and consumer protection statutes clearly during client sessions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Telephone interview execution — conducts structured phone interviews to gather comprehensive income, debt, and expense information with minimal client confusion O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Tailored counseling communication — adjusts explanation depth and vocabulary to match each client's financial literacy level across in-person and remote sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Debt repayment rationale — articulates prioritization logic for debt repayment sequences, including consequences of foreclosure or bankruptcy, so clients can make informed decisions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Spending plan presentation — delivers detailed budget and debt management plans in writing and verbally, ensuring clients understand action steps and timelines O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Multi-party coordination messages — communicates repayment progress updates simultaneously to clients and creditor representatives through clear, professional written and verbal channels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex case narrative — synthesizes multi-creditor financial scenarios into coherent written case summaries that support internal review and external agency referrals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Counseling communication standards — mentors junior counselors on structuring client interviews and delivering difficult financial news with accuracy and empathy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community financial education — delivers group workshops or webinars on credit management, budgeting, and debt resolution to diverse public audiences O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Policy and resource documentation — authors agency-facing guides and client-facing materials that translate regulatory changes in consumer credit law into actionable guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership12 statements
Emerging
  1. Case ownership initiation — takes responsibility for assigned client caseload and follows through on scheduled counseling appointments without prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Process adherence — follows established debt counseling protocols and flags deviations to supervisors, demonstrating accountability for client outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Client goal advocacy — proactively recommends debt strategies aligned with client goals rather than waiting for clients to request direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer knowledge sharing — shares effective client interview techniques or creditor negotiation scripts with colleagues during team meetings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis escalation leadership — identifies clients at risk of foreclosure or bankruptcy and initiates escalated counseling responses without supervisor direction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Caseload prioritization leadership — manages high-volume caseloads by independently triaging urgency levels and allocating counseling resources to highest-risk clients first Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creditor relationship stewardship — leads ongoing creditor concession negotiations on behalf of multiple clients, maintaining productive agency-creditor relationships O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Junior counselor guidance — provides informal mentorship to newer credit counselors on case assessment methodology and client communication strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program development leadership — leads redesign of debt management plan workflows or client intake processes to improve efficiency and client retention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Agency representation — represents the counseling agency in industry coalitions, creditor partnership meetings, or regulatory consultations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team performance accountability — sets measurable counseling quality benchmarks for a counseling team and holds members accountable through structured performance reviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Thought leadership — publishes or presents on emerging debt management strategies, consumer credit trends, or policy implications at professional conferences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition11 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-assessment of financial knowledge — identifies personal gaps in understanding of credit law, bankruptcy procedures, or budgeting methods and seeks relevant training materials Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Session reflection — reviews recorded or written notes after client sessions to identify missed financial details or communication missteps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy selection — chooses targeted study approaches, such as case study review or creditor policy reading, to address specific knowledge gaps identified through client feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error pattern recognition — notices recurring mistakes in debt calculation or client communication and adjusts personal practice accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Goal-setting for skill growth — sets concrete professional development objectives around complex problem-solving or financial analysis skills between performance review cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Case complexity self-monitoring — recognizes when a client's financial situation exceeds current expertise and proactively seeks supervisory consultation or specialist referral Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Counseling approach evaluation — reflects on the effectiveness of recommended debt strategies after client outcomes are known and refines future recommendations accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Bias awareness in assessment — monitors for assumptions about client financial behavior and adjusts assessment questions to remain objective Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive modeling — teaches junior counselors how to identify their own knowledge limits and build structured self-correction habits into daily case practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic learning integration — synthesizes lessons from resolved client cases across the full caseload to update personal decision-making frameworks for future debt counseling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Professional knowledge mapping — maintains a continuously updated personal inventory of regulatory changes, creditor policy shifts, and financial product knowledge to guide self-directed learning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking13 statements
Emerging
  1. Financial data review — identifies discrepancies between client-reported income and documented pay stubs or bank statements during initial file review O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Debt consequence identification — recognizes basic consequences of non-payment, such as collection actions or credit score damage, and incorporates them into client discussions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Credit report analysis — evaluates credit report entries to distinguish accurate negative items from potential reporting errors and advises clients on dispute options O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repayment scenario comparison — compares multiple debt repayment sequences by interest cost and timeline to identify the most financially advantageous path for the client O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Budget gap diagnosis — identifies structural gaps between client income and expenditure that standard spending reductions cannot close and escalates to advanced solution options Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-factor financial assessment — synthesizes income, assets, liabilities, credit history, and expense data to form a comprehensive judgment about client financial viability across multiple debt resolution options O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Bankruptcy feasibility evaluation — weighs legal eligibility, long-term credit impact, and asset protection outcomes to determine whether bankruptcy represents the optimal client recommendation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Creditor concession logic — evaluates creditor hardship policies and client payment capacity together to determine the most defensible negotiation position Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Assumption testing in plans — challenges assumptions embedded in client-proposed budgets, such as unrealistic income projections, before finalizing debt management plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex insolvency reasoning — analyzes clients with simultaneous mortgage default, multiple unsecured debts, and legal garnishment actions to construct a logically sequenced resolution strategy O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Policy critique — evaluates agency debt management policies against current consumer protection law to identify gaps or client harm risks and recommends revisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Case precedent application — draws on patterns from prior resolved cases to anticipate likely creditor responses and client compliance barriers in new complex cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  4. Evidence-based strategy refinement — uses client outcome data across the caseload to critically assess which debt resolution strategies produce the highest completion rates and revises recommendations accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration11 statements
Emerging
  1. Internal referral coordination — follows established processes for referring clients to housing counselors, legal aid, or social services when financial issues extend beyond credit counseling scope Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team meeting participation — contributes client case updates during team check-ins and listens actively to peer feedback on case handling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Creditor partner collaboration — works cooperatively with creditor representatives to negotiate payment concessions on clients' behalf, balancing agency and creditor interests O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional case support — coordinates with intake staff, financial coaches, and supervisors to ensure seamless handoffs and consistent client messaging Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer case consultation — solicits input from experienced colleagues when encountering unfamiliar debt structures or creditor policies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-agency client support — collaborates with bankruptcy attorneys, housing agencies, and social service providers to deliver integrated support for clients with complex financial and life circumstances O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creditor program negotiation — works jointly with creditor hardship teams to establish or renew agency-level concession agreements that benefit multiple clients simultaneously O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team quality improvement — contributes to collaborative reviews of counseling outcomes, sharing case data and observations to improve team-wide practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Inter-agency partnership leadership — builds and sustains formal referral and co-counseling relationships with legal, housing, and social service partners to expand client support capacity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creditor relationship strategy — leads joint planning sessions with creditor partners to align agency debt management plan standards with creditor acceptance criteria O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Collaborative training design — partners with compliance and education staff to co-develop counselor training curricula grounded in shared case experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character11 statements
Emerging
  1. Confidentiality compliance — handles client financial records and personal information strictly according to agency privacy policies and applicable regulations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest limitation disclosure — informs clients when a question exceeds current knowledge and commits to follow up rather than providing inaccurate guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Conflict of interest avoidance — declines to recommend debt products or services in which the counselor holds a personal financial interest without full disclosure to the client Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability for errors — acknowledges calculation mistakes in client budgets or payment plans, corrects them promptly, and communicates corrections transparently to the client Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Client-centered integrity — presents all relevant debt resolution options, including those with lower agency revenue, when they represent the best outcome for the client O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical recommendation consistency — applies the same rigorous, unbiased financial analysis regardless of client background, credit profile, or debt type Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional boundary maintenance — maintains clear professional boundaries with clients experiencing emotional distress during financial crisis counseling sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory compliance stewardship — ensures all client disclosures, fee explanations, and debt management plan documentation meet federal and state regulatory requirements O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethics leadership — models and enforces ethical counseling standards within the team, addressing observed conflicts of interest or compliance deviations directly and constructively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Advocate integrity — publicly advocates for consumer-protective policies in industry forums even when such positions conflict with agency financial interests Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Character mentorship — coaches junior counselors on navigating ethically ambiguous client situations, using real case examples to illustrate principled decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity11 statements
Emerging
  1. Alternative resource identification — identifies non-traditional financial assistance programs or community resources to supplement standard debt management options for clients with limited repayment capacity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Budget creativity — proposes unconventional expense reduction strategies tailored to a specific client's spending patterns and lifestyle constraints O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Custom repayment design — constructs individualized debt repayment sequences that combine multiple strategies, such as debt avalanche with selective hardship deferment, to fit unusual client circumstances O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client engagement innovation — develops new ways to explain abstract financial concepts, such as compound interest or credit utilization, using visual aids or analogies relevant to the client Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Problem reframing — reframes a client's perceived debt crisis as a structured financial challenge with solvable components, unlocking client willingness to engage with the plan Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Novel negotiation approaches — crafts creditor negotiation proposals that creatively combine lump-sum settlement offers, extended payment terms, and interest waivers to resolve stalled accounts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Program gap solutions — designs interim counseling support strategies for clients who do not qualify for standard debt management plans but require structured guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Financial literacy tool creation — develops original client-facing worksheets, calculators, or decision guides that simplify complex debt analysis for low-literacy populations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Service model innovation — designs new counseling service formats, such as group debt workshops or tiered digital coaching tools, that extend agency reach to underserved populations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Policy creative contribution — proposes novel creditor partnership frameworks or consumer-protection program designs to regulatory bodies or industry working groups Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Curriculum invention — creates original financial counseling training modules that incorporate case simulations, role-play, and adaptive feedback mechanisms for counselor development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset11 statements
Emerging
  1. Regulatory update engagement — reads and incorporates changes to consumer credit laws and creditor policies into counseling practice when informed by supervisors or continuing education Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — accepts supervisor feedback on client session recordings or case notes without defensiveness and applies suggestions in subsequent sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Credential pursuit — actively works toward recognized credit counseling certifications, such as NFCC or AFCPE credentials, to deepen financial knowledge and professional standing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback reappraisal — when a debt management plan fails due to client non-compliance or creditor rejection, analyzes the breakdown to extract lessons for future case handling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Skill stretch acceptance — volunteers to handle more complex case types, such as multi-creditor insolvencies or clients with legal judgments, to accelerate skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuous learning integration — incorporates new financial regulations, creditor policy updates, and economic research into counseling recommendations on an ongoing basis Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client persistence modeling — demonstrates to clients that financial recovery requires sustained effort and reframes short-term plan failures as data for adjustment rather than defeat Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Performance data use — reviews personal caseload outcome metrics regularly and sets improvement targets for client plan completion rates and counseling session quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — establishes team norms that treat client case failures as collective learning opportunities, leading post-mortem reviews with a growth-oriented framework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Advanced credential attainment — pursues advanced financial planning or consumer law credentials beyond minimum requirements to expand service capacity for complex client needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Adaptive practice leadership — integrates emerging behavioral finance research into agency counseling protocols, translating academic findings into practical counselor guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness11 statements
Emerging
  1. Emotional neutrality in intake — maintains a calm, non-judgmental demeanor when clients disclose embarrassing or overwhelming debt situations during initial interviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Attention to detail — reviews client financial documents with focused attention to catch errors in income figures or debt balances before building repayment plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Session presence — sets aside competing caseload pressures during active client sessions to give full attention to each client's financial narrative and emotional state Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress self-regulation — applies deliberate calming strategies when managing high-volume caseloads or hostile client interactions to maintain counseling effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Reactive communication control — pauses before responding to emotionally charged client statements to ensure responses remain measured, accurate, and client-centered Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional pacing — structures counseling sessions with deliberate pacing, allowing space for client processing of complex financial information rather than rushing through plan details Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Compassion fatigue monitoring — recognizes and addresses personal signs of emotional exhaustion from sustained exposure to client financial crises through active self-care practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Client emotional attunement — notices shifts in client affect during sessions, such as shame or anxiety, and adjusts communication approach in the moment to maintain productive engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful supervision — coaches junior counselors to recognize emotional reactivity in client sessions and develop in-the-moment regulation strategies specific to high-distress financial counseling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational mindfulness advocacy — champions structured reflection practices, such as debrief protocols after difficult cases, as standard team operating procedure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Presence-based decision quality — demonstrates that intentional, unhurried case analysis consistently produces more accurate debt assessments and stronger client outcomes than reactive case processing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude11 statements
Emerging
  1. Client resistance tolerance — continues to present viable debt solutions calmly when clients initially reject counseling recommendations or deny the severity of their financial situation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult conversation follow-through — delivers unwelcome financial assessments, such as ineligibility for debt management programs, without avoiding or softening the message to the point of inaccuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Creditor rejection persistence — pursues alternative creditor negotiation approaches after initial concession requests are denied rather than accepting unfavorable terms immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Caseload pressure endurance — maintains counseling quality standards during periods of high caseload volume or organizational change without reducing thoroughness of financial assessments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Client crisis resilience — provides steady, structured support to clients in acute financial crisis, such as imminent foreclosure, without becoming paralyzed by the urgency of the situation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Long-term case perseverance — sustains active engagement with clients on multi-year debt management plans through periods of client non-compliance, income disruption, or plan renegotiation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ambiguity navigation — proceeds with constructing workable debt strategies for clients whose financial situations include legal uncertainty or incomplete documentation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Ethical courage — maintains accurate and honest client assessments even when clients, creditors, or agency incentives pressure toward more favorable but less truthful representations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic adversity leadership — leads the counseling team through regulatory upheaval, creditor policy changes, or agency restructuring with sustained focus on client service quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex case championship — takes on and resolves client cases that other counselors have closed as unworkable, demonstrating persistent problem-solving under sustained uncertainty Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Resilience mentorship — teaches junior counselors to maintain professional effectiveness and personal wellbeing through the chronic emotional demands of financial crisis counseling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Accredited Financial Counselor · Branch Credit Counselor · Certified Consumer Credit and Housing Counselor · Certified Credit and Housing Counselor · Certified Credit Consultant · Certified Credit Counselor · Consumer Credit Counselor · Consumer Lending Manager · Credit Associate · Credit Balance Specialist · Credit Card Specialist · Credit Counselor
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
SpeakingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningWritingCritical ThinkingService OrientationActive LearningComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingPersuasionNegotiationSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationTime ManagementMathematicsLearning StrategiesMonitoringSystems Evaluation
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageMathematicsAdministrativeEducation and TrainingEconomics and AccountingPsychology
Abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive ReasoningWritten ExpressionProblem SensitivitySpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionNear Vision
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailIntegrityEmpathySinceritySocial Orientation
Technology
Network conferencing softwareFinancial analysis softwareData base user interface and query softwareElectronic mail softwareInformation retrieval or search softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Calculate clients' available monthly income to meet debt obligations.
  2. Explain services or policies to clients, such as debt management program rules, advantages and disadvantages of using services, or creditor concession policies.
  3. Create debt management plans, spending plans, or budgets to assist clients to meet financial goals.
  4. Prioritize client debt repayment to avoid dire consequences, such as bankruptcy or foreclosure or to reduce overall costs, such as by paying high-interest or short-term loans first.
  5. Assess clients' overall financial situations by reviewing income, assets, debts, expenses, credit reports, or other financial information.
  6. Recommend strategies for clients to meet their financial goals, such as borrowing money through loans or loan programs, declaring bankruptcy, making budget adjustments, or enrolling in debt management plans.
  7. Explain general financial topics to clients, such as credit report ratings, bankruptcy laws, consumer protection laws, wage attachments, or collection actions.
  8. Interview clients by telephone or in person to gather financial information.
CIP education codes
52.080352.080452.0809

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.