Not unlike many folks in this forum, I have a significant amount of student loan debt (even that seems to be an understatement)...$350K in private education debt and $190K in federal debt. Some of it is still in deferment - some I have been paying on for several years. But I see the writing on the wall and I'm scared about how I am going to pay off this monstrosity. I am employed and make a good salary ~$120K/year. But even then I just can't see how I am going to tackle this debt. I made some very stupid decisions in my youth that I so regret now - mainly at the encouragement of someone I loved very much - but that is besides the point. Now, I just want to figure out how to deal with this before it takes over my life. I know this sounds strange - but with the federal debt I am less worried b/c of the IBR plan - and feel like I will be paying for the 25 year max, but at least it will be capped. My fear is of the private education debt. It is slowly starting to come due - but I fear the windfall will basically eat all of my income. Any advice on what I can do and who I can talk to? I'm not even sure if a student loan consolidation would help. Short of winning a major lottery - I feel trapped by this impending doom. I was wondering is there a group that specializes in helping an individual get her student loan debt under control - so that there is a balance between repayment and having a life where one is not working solely to pay student loan payments. I am trying to find a reputable agency to help me...or an attorney...or someone...I feel really lost. As I've said, I'm current on all payments - but I see the wave coming and I'm not sure I will be able to jump over it.
Thanks in advance for your ears and your help.

