Often, people seek counseling because they are feeling "stuck," they're dissatisfied with the results of their efforts.  But counseling will not "fix" anyone, it is a collaborative process of discovery, and significant realizations.  New goals may be created, and the client works to make them reality with behavioral changes, working with the counselor.  In the process of achieving goals, new realizations are often made, and new goals might be added or discarded, and the progress of accomplishments are noted and celebrated.  Sounds simple?  A good counselor guides the client to overcome a lifetime of difficult relationships, negative habits, and dysfunctional family members with their own agendas,  The client will get different, new results, and accomplish goals that are now within reach.