Photo of Wendy Gage - - Whole Family Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Wendy Gage - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
New parenthood is such a tender time for couples. Whether you are trying to start a family, are a first time parent or a parent now managing more than one young child, you can find yourself depleted, overwhelmed, and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions along with guilt at how that might be impacting your children. If you are managing a new baby with other young children, you may find that your older children are acting out at a time when you are sleep deprived and struggling to stay patient. Perhaps you and your partner hardly have time to connect and you feel distance or disconnected.
New parenthood is such a tender time for couples. Whether you are trying to start a family, are a first time parent or a parent now managing more than one young child, you can find yourself depleted, overwhelmed, and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions along with guilt at how that might be impacting your children. If you are managing a new baby with other young children, you may find that your older children are acting out at a time when you are sleep deprived and struggling to stay patient. Perhaps you and your partner hardly have time to connect and you feel distance or disconnected.
(289) 312-3145 View (289) 312-3145
Photo of Phyllis Wai Ng, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Phyllis Wai Ng
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Everyone desires to have a good quality of life and every family deserves to have harmony and respect. Have you been feeling sad, anxious, angry, or lonely? Are you tired of dealing with ongoing family conflict? Would you like to enhance your marriage? Are you worried about your kid acting out, having emotional or substance use issues, or even being suicidal? No matter what your concerns are, there is always HOPE! The truth is you can overcome all these life challenges with professional help. Through counselling, you will be able to explore your options and learn strategies to eventually manage your problems on your own.
Everyone desires to have a good quality of life and every family deserves to have harmony and respect. Have you been feeling sad, anxious, angry, or lonely? Are you tired of dealing with ongoing family conflict? Would you like to enhance your marriage? Are you worried about your kid acting out, having emotional or substance use issues, or even being suicidal? No matter what your concerns are, there is always HOPE! The truth is you can overcome all these life challenges with professional help. Through counselling, you will be able to explore your options and learn strategies to eventually manage your problems on your own.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Ambrose Ty, RP, MDiv, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Ambrose Ty
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv, MSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C  (Online Only)
Marriage or trauma, depression or anxiety; seeking help when you are feeling stuck is difficult but necessary in your first step towards change. By equipping yourself with tools that you can add to your "toolbox" of life, you will find ways to overcome difficult situations which can guide you to growth, change or healing. As a registered psychotherapist (RP), my specialty is working with those who have experienced trauma, couples who are experiencing marital difficulties, and individuals that are struggling through mental health issues, especially youth.
Marriage or trauma, depression or anxiety; seeking help when you are feeling stuck is difficult but necessary in your first step towards change. By equipping yourself with tools that you can add to your "toolbox" of life, you will find ways to overcome difficult situations which can guide you to growth, change or healing. As a registered psychotherapist (RP), my specialty is working with those who have experienced trauma, couples who are experiencing marital difficulties, and individuals that are struggling through mental health issues, especially youth.
(647) 493-1950 View (647) 493-1950
Photo of Lisa Marie - Lisa Marie- (no waitlist), MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Marie- (no waitlist)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist, my goal is to create a space that is safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental for you to explore any challenges you may be facing. I aim to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, while working collaboratively to help you reach your goals and needs. Together, we can find strategies and tools that can help increase your ability to cope, heal, and grow. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief, substance use, self-harm, anger, stress management, and relationship issues. Sessions are offered for adolescents (14+), adults, and couples.
As a psychotherapist, my goal is to create a space that is safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental for you to explore any challenges you may be facing. I aim to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, while working collaboratively to help you reach your goals and needs. Together, we can find strategies and tools that can help increase your ability to cope, heal, and grow. Some of my areas of focus include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief, substance use, self-harm, anger, stress management, and relationship issues. Sessions are offered for adolescents (14+), adults, and couples.
(289) 212-6877 View (289) 212-6877
Photo of Jonathan Ho Cheung Lo, MPsy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jonathan Ho Cheung Lo
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C  (Online Only)
Have you felt lost, confused, or misunderstood? Have you felt overly sad, angry, or fearful and not sure why? You are not alone...and I can help. Psychotherapy is a journey to discover the meaning behind your emotional challenges, and I am happy to walk alongside you.
Have you felt lost, confused, or misunderstood? Have you felt overly sad, angry, or fearful and not sure why? You are not alone...and I can help. Psychotherapy is a journey to discover the meaning behind your emotional challenges, and I am happy to walk alongside you.
(289) 207-8011 View (289) 207-8011
Photo of Marisol Cartagena - Marisol Cartagena | New Hope Grief Centre, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Marisol Cartagena | New Hope Grief Centre
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Do you struggle with grief that affects your ability to function? Do you feel lost on how to get through the day after the loss of someone you love? Do you hope the pain can get better? Lighter? Now more than ever, people are feeling heartbroken, stuck, and overwhelmed about how to cope with grief. Not taking time for yourself to process and manage your loss can lead to additional stress and problems to your emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. We believe there is hope and answers to finding a way to live life after a loss.
Do you struggle with grief that affects your ability to function? Do you feel lost on how to get through the day after the loss of someone you love? Do you hope the pain can get better? Lighter? Now more than ever, people are feeling heartbroken, stuck, and overwhelmed about how to cope with grief. Not taking time for yourself to process and manage your loss can lead to additional stress and problems to your emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. We believe there is hope and answers to finding a way to live life after a loss.
(289) 724-3563 View (289) 724-3563
Photo of Matthew Mascioli, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Matthew Mascioli
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Life's stressors can add up and become overwhelming for anyone. Dealing with those uncomfortable feelings of anxiety, stress, and overwhelm can push us away from who we are and distance ourselves from who we aspire to be. Taking that step to find a professional that fits your needs is an important one in your journey to reclaim your inner peace. Just like we should engage in regular exercise to keep our physical bodies healthy, it is vital to give your mind that same level of care and attention. Together, we can focus on making your mental health a top priority and progressively moving towards a better place.
Life's stressors can add up and become overwhelming for anyone. Dealing with those uncomfortable feelings of anxiety, stress, and overwhelm can push us away from who we are and distance ourselves from who we aspire to be. Taking that step to find a professional that fits your needs is an important one in your journey to reclaim your inner peace. Just like we should engage in regular exercise to keep our physical bodies healthy, it is vital to give your mind that same level of care and attention. Together, we can focus on making your mental health a top priority and progressively moving towards a better place.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Yan Sin Wong - Yan Sin Wong, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Yan Sin Wong
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain or sleep disturbance? Do you want to explore your issue through different art means? Or are you a caregiver for an elderly without support? If that is you, I can offer help. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), together with an expressive arts therapist, with rich experience in psychotherapy under medical setting. Here I would be honored to journey alongside you towards your goals, to be a healthier & happier person.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain or sleep disturbance? Do you want to explore your issue through different art means? Or are you a caregiver for an elderly without support? If that is you, I can offer help. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), together with an expressive arts therapist, with rich experience in psychotherapy under medical setting. Here I would be honored to journey alongside you towards your goals, to be a healthier & happier person.
(289) 272-8625 View (289) 272-8625
Photo of Youstina Iskander, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Youstina Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Oftentimes, life presents us with challenges that no one has ever prepared us for. The most important thing is that you're here because you have the strength to recognize when you need help. Feeling constantly overwhelmed, exhausted, worried, or hopeless can prevent you from becoming the person you want to be. Together, we can work on unloading that weight and learning to cope. Working on your mental health is one of the most important ways to pave the way to a happier and healthier life.
Oftentimes, life presents us with challenges that no one has ever prepared us for. The most important thing is that you're here because you have the strength to recognize when you need help. Feeling constantly overwhelmed, exhausted, worried, or hopeless can prevent you from becoming the person you want to be. Together, we can work on unloading that weight and learning to cope. Working on your mental health is one of the most important ways to pave the way to a happier and healthier life.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Laird Zhou, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Laird Zhou
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
We go through different seasons in our life physically and metaphorically. I see myself as an emotional companion to my client's journey through their most challenging seasons. My goal is to support you through the winters of your life, and even inspire you to enjoy them! My therapeutic approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, culturally-inclusive, LGBTQ2S+ allied, body and sex positive, nonjudgmental, and strength-based, as to ensure that you feel safe enough to be yourself. I understand healing as a creative, personal, and non-linear process in which we gain insight over our lived experiences.
We go through different seasons in our life physically and metaphorically. I see myself as an emotional companion to my client's journey through their most challenging seasons. My goal is to support you through the winters of your life, and even inspire you to enjoy them! My therapeutic approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, culturally-inclusive, LGBTQ2S+ allied, body and sex positive, nonjudgmental, and strength-based, as to ensure that you feel safe enough to be yourself. I understand healing as a creative, personal, and non-linear process in which we gain insight over our lived experiences.
(289) 278-8623 View (289) 278-8623
Photo of Jennifer Kwong - Keystone Psychology, CPsych, Assoc
Keystone Psychology
CPsych, Assoc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
If challenges at work or home are leading to lower functioning (e.g. poor sleep, difficulty thinking, more arguments in relationships), maybe it's time to get it assessed. Mood and physical issues often signal a need for change, extra support, and/or, a reset of sorts. Your body systems hold vital information: if you're not sure how to decipher the messages, let us help you.
If challenges at work or home are leading to lower functioning (e.g. poor sleep, difficulty thinking, more arguments in relationships), maybe it's time to get it assessed. Mood and physical issues often signal a need for change, extra support, and/or, a reset of sorts. Your body systems hold vital information: if you're not sure how to decipher the messages, let us help you.
(647) 360-8903 View (647) 360-8903
Photo of Prof. Yeong Ra Kim, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Prof. Yeong Ra Kim
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, addiction or depression. Their goal is to be rehabilitated into a healthy state at a pace that is both comfortable for them as a client and I as a therapist. They want to be able to achieve their personal goals and put them in a state of restoration. `
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, addiction or depression. Their goal is to be rehabilitated into a healthy state at a pace that is both comfortable for them as a client and I as a therapist. They want to be able to achieve their personal goals and put them in a state of restoration. `
(647) 492-2873 View (647) 492-2873
Photo of Janette Chu, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Janette Chu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Having been through my own healing journey, I understand that seeking help and talking to a stranger can be difficult and overwhelming. In our time together, our therapeutic relationship is my priority and I offer a calm, non-judgmental, and trauma-sensitive space for you to share your story while gently supporting you to reach your desired outcomes.
Having been through my own healing journey, I understand that seeking help and talking to a stranger can be difficult and overwhelming. In our time together, our therapeutic relationship is my priority and I offer a calm, non-judgmental, and trauma-sensitive space for you to share your story while gently supporting you to reach your desired outcomes.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Mora Ebeid, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Mora Ebeid
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C  (Online Only)
I believe in fostering relationships with my clients built on trust, openness, and genuine care. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where you feel respected, supported, and empowered to face challenges and pursue your unique needs. Central to my approach are compassion and a non-judgmental attitude. I am committed to connecting with you authentically and offering the support you deserve. I value and celebrate diversity, integrating multicultural perspectives to ensure therapy respects and responds to your cultural background.
I believe in fostering relationships with my clients built on trust, openness, and genuine care. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where you feel respected, supported, and empowered to face challenges and pursue your unique needs. Central to my approach are compassion and a non-judgmental attitude. I am committed to connecting with you authentically and offering the support you deserve. I value and celebrate diversity, integrating multicultural perspectives to ensure therapy respects and responds to your cultural background.
View
Photo of Kenny Lo, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kenny Lo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
I believe that we only live in the present moment because the past is gone, and the future is not here yet. I support you with gaining an awareness of your experience in the moment, become who you are, and processing your challenges in the here-and-now. The change process occurs not when the individuals try to be other than who they are and what they think they should be. Successful recovery involves patience, self-compassion, determination, persistence, commitment, and practice.
I believe that we only live in the present moment because the past is gone, and the future is not here yet. I support you with gaining an awareness of your experience in the moment, become who you are, and processing your challenges in the here-and-now. The change process occurs not when the individuals try to be other than who they are and what they think they should be. Successful recovery involves patience, self-compassion, determination, persistence, commitment, and practice.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Lily Zayed, BSc, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lily Zayed
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, especially during challenging times. Research shows that talk therapy can be incredibly helpful. Using a customized plan and effective tools, I am committed to helping you navigate your emotions, decrease anxiety, and achieve your goals towards living a happier and meaningful life.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, especially during challenging times. Research shows that talk therapy can be incredibly helpful. Using a customized plan and effective tools, I am committed to helping you navigate your emotions, decrease anxiety, and achieve your goals towards living a happier and meaningful life.
(289) 512-2485 View (289) 512-2485
Photo of Phyllis Ng - Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
(289) 210-9485 View (289) 210-9485
Photo of Florence Lin, MDiv, MSci, Registered Psychotherapist
Florence Lin
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MSci
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with dysfunctional relationships, or experiencing a lack of motivation, focus or direction, help is available. I am here to provide a safe and calm space where you can share your story and figure things out without judgement. My hope is that you will gain the insight and skills needed to experience change for the better. In addition to being warm and empathetic, my approach integrates selected evidence-based modalities to match your unique situation and goals. At the heart of my practice is a deep value for human connection as well as advocating for your voice to be heard.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with dysfunctional relationships, or experiencing a lack of motivation, focus or direction, help is available. I am here to provide a safe and calm space where you can share your story and figure things out without judgement. My hope is that you will gain the insight and skills needed to experience change for the better. In addition to being warm and empathetic, my approach integrates selected evidence-based modalities to match your unique situation and goals. At the heart of my practice is a deep value for human connection as well as advocating for your voice to be heard.
(289) 724-2229 View (289) 724-2229
Photo of Ishi Wang, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ishi Wang
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Congratulations on taking the first step to open a new door for your life journey by finding a therapist here! Each of us has a unique journey in life where we encounter difficult situations and challenges. How we tackle and view these situations and challenges is influenced by our past experiences. While we cannot physically go back to change our past, we can begin writing and rewriting a new chapter of this story. Change has never been easy, and I am pleased to be your self-discovery ally to understand, empower and guide you toward your inner self and new possibilities.
Congratulations on taking the first step to open a new door for your life journey by finding a therapist here! Each of us has a unique journey in life where we encounter difficult situations and challenges. How we tackle and view these situations and challenges is influenced by our past experiences. While we cannot physically go back to change our past, we can begin writing and rewriting a new chapter of this story. Change has never been easy, and I am pleased to be your self-discovery ally to understand, empower and guide you toward your inner self and new possibilities.
(289) 203-1789 View (289) 203-1789
Photo of Alana Sham, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Alana Sham
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6C
It's hard when you feel like you don't understand what is wrong with your loved one, and all you want to do is help. Perhaps more often than not, you struggle and/or feel frustrated and can't communicate without you and/or the other person becoming upset, and it feels hopeless trying to figure out how to fix the problem. During such difficult times, know that you're not alone, that your feelings are valid, and there is hope for things to change for the better.
It's hard when you feel like you don't understand what is wrong with your loved one, and all you want to do is help. Perhaps more often than not, you struggle and/or feel frustrated and can't communicate without you and/or the other person becoming upset, and it feels hopeless trying to figure out how to fix the problem. During such difficult times, know that you're not alone, that your feelings are valid, and there is hope for things to change for the better.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
1

See more therapy options for L6C

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in L6C

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Counsellors in L6C who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
86% Relationship Issues
86% Self Esteem
80% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Green Shield Canada
81% Manulife
75% SunLife

How Counsellors in L6C see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
18% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in L6C?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?

Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.

Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.