I agree. $3k-$5k is a healthy budget, and many very good counselors will be at or below that range (depending on how many hours you need). Counselors in NYC or LA may cost more, but even if you live in those areas, you don’t need to use a counselor from there. Look for fit, interview a few (the counselor is assessing fit too)
IMO, have a counselor help with course selection for 10th-12th, an hour for that each year. Then in mid 11th grade, college research and list building starts. Then summer before 12th application work begins.