Counselling in Newport Pagnell

Photo of Dr Kate Woollaston, Psychologist in Newport Pagnell, England
Dr Kate Woollaston
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
If you're reading this then you or someone you care about is probably hurting and in need of help. You may be feeling overwhelmed by worries and anxiety. It might be that you’re not the person, parent or partner you want to be, and feel like your failing. You may be struggling for a number of factors, including: past traumatic experiences, current day stressors and family issues. You need support to make meaningful changes so you can feel calm and live the life you want.
If you're reading this then you or someone you care about is probably hurting and in need of help. You may be feeling overwhelmed by worries and anxiety. It might be that you’re not the person, parent or partner you want to be, and feel like your failing. You may be struggling for a number of factors, including: past traumatic experiences, current day stressors and family issues. You need support to make meaningful changes so you can feel calm and live the life you want.
07565 537750 View 07565 537750
Photo of Natalia Thompson, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Natalia Thompson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Pagnell MK16
As a therapist, I have a special passion for working with adults who may have faced challenges in their relationship with their parents while growing up. I deeply understand the significant impact that early experiences have on our emotional well-being and how they shape our connections with others. I believe that the bond between a parent and child is crucial, and when that bond is disrupted or strained, it can leave lasting effects. Drawing from attachment theory, which emphasises the importance of healthy emotional connections, we will work together to understand the impact of your early experiences and how they may still influe
As a therapist, I have a special passion for working with adults who may have faced challenges in their relationship with their parents while growing up. I deeply understand the significant impact that early experiences have on our emotional well-being and how they shape our connections with others. I believe that the bond between a parent and child is crucial, and when that bond is disrupted or strained, it can leave lasting effects. Drawing from attachment theory, which emphasises the importance of healthy emotional connections, we will work together to understand the impact of your early experiences and how they may still influe
01794 331140 View 01794 331140
Photo of Emma Allum, Psychotherapist in Newport Pagnell, England
Emma Allum
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist: CAMHS and Eating Disorder specialist. CBT supervision also offered. I can help you in so many ways to feel calmer, happier, and even how to become your own therapist. Mental health issues can take away so much of our enjoyment. Struggling everyday with strong emotions and often worrying, self-critical thoughts is so difficult, especially when you are trying to cope alone. But you don’t have to continue to suffer at the mercy of your mind.
Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist: CAMHS and Eating Disorder specialist. CBT supervision also offered. I can help you in so many ways to feel calmer, happier, and even how to become your own therapist. Mental health issues can take away so much of our enjoyment. Struggling everyday with strong emotions and often worrying, self-critical thoughts is so difficult, especially when you are trying to cope alone. But you don’t have to continue to suffer at the mercy of your mind.
01908 410774 View 01908 410774
Photo of Counselling with Char, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Counselling with Char
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
Waitlist for new clients
I provide counselling for individuals aged 18+. I have a comfy therapy room in Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes and also virtual sessions either on Zoom or over the phone. I have experience of working with anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, shame, low self-esteem, loss, grief, bereavement, unpaid carers, trauma, relationship issues and more.
I provide counselling for individuals aged 18+. I have a comfy therapy room in Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes and also virtual sessions either on Zoom or over the phone. I have experience of working with anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, shame, low self-esteem, loss, grief, bereavement, unpaid carers, trauma, relationship issues and more.
01908 103584 View 01908 103584
Photo of Sarah Showler, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Sarah Showler
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
My aim is to offer my clients a supportive and safe space for them to explore and work through their challenges. This means that I actively listen to my clients, working collaboratively together to find a new perspective and approach to their situations to enable them to make the positive steps toward their goals and in their lives. I believe that counselling isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ process and together we will work out a process that best works for you. Finding a solution to understand or accept something that has been holding you back is a positive step.
My aim is to offer my clients a supportive and safe space for them to explore and work through their challenges. This means that I actively listen to my clients, working collaboratively together to find a new perspective and approach to their situations to enable them to make the positive steps toward their goals and in their lives. I believe that counselling isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ process and together we will work out a process that best works for you. Finding a solution to understand or accept something that has been holding you back is a positive step.
01908 015970 View 01908 015970
Photo of Catherine Russell, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Catherine Russell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
I believe everyone should have access to high quality counselling at exactly the time they need it, without having to wait. I am a qualified counsellor with many years experience working with a wide range of issues and with people who come from a variety of backgrounds. This experience includes bereavement, domestic violence, low self-esteem, substance misuse, relationship difficulties, addictions, self-harm, trauma, abuse, social and family interactions, carer support, misophonia, divorce and separation, anxiety, panic attacks and depression.
I believe everyone should have access to high quality counselling at exactly the time they need it, without having to wait. I am a qualified counsellor with many years experience working with a wide range of issues and with people who come from a variety of backgrounds. This experience includes bereavement, domestic violence, low self-esteem, substance misuse, relationship difficulties, addictions, self-harm, trauma, abuse, social and family interactions, carer support, misophonia, divorce and separation, anxiety, panic attacks and depression.
01908 015911 View 01908 015911
Photo of Nick Pandya, Psychotherapist in Newport Pagnell, England
Nick Pandya
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
I believe that we all have an innate tendency towards health and wholeness. Every so often, life events and situations can get in the way of accessing our inner resources to achieve growth and healing. Psychotherapy can be a valuable tool to firmly place you back on the path to living a full life. When we are faced with major or recurring life stressors we can be overwhelmed and seeking additional support, such as therapy, is a natural and positive step in taking care of yourself.
I believe that we all have an innate tendency towards health and wholeness. Every so often, life events and situations can get in the way of accessing our inner resources to achieve growth and healing. Psychotherapy can be a valuable tool to firmly place you back on the path to living a full life. When we are faced with major or recurring life stressors we can be overwhelmed and seeking additional support, such as therapy, is a natural and positive step in taking care of yourself.
01908 082397 View 01908 082397
Photo of Asha Weir, Psychologist in Newport Pagnell, England
Asha Weir
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
I am a psychologist and counsellor who has spent a very rewarding 18 years building my practice in the beautiful city of Milton Keynes, helping men and women, teenagers and children, couples and families. I deal with a wide variety of issues and situations including couples therapy, relationship counselling, depression, anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, confidence building, teenage and child behaviours, and bullying in the workplace.
I am a psychologist and counsellor who has spent a very rewarding 18 years building my practice in the beautiful city of Milton Keynes, helping men and women, teenagers and children, couples and families. I deal with a wide variety of issues and situations including couples therapy, relationship counselling, depression, anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, confidence building, teenage and child behaviours, and bullying in the workplace.
01908 082329 View 01908 082329
Photo of Edak E Effiom, Psychotherapist in Newport Pagnell, England
Edak E Effiom
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
When you make the decision to talk to a total stranger about your difficulties, it can sometimes provoke anxiety. However, as your therapist, my goal is to not make you feel judged, by providing a safe, confidential space for you to express those difficult feelings that you may never have been able to do. My aim is for you to feel connected with aspects of your self, which might make you feel more able to explore more complex issues of your life experience, so that you can make better sense of your world and your way of being and interacting with the connections you make within that world.
When you make the decision to talk to a total stranger about your difficulties, it can sometimes provoke anxiety. However, as your therapist, my goal is to not make you feel judged, by providing a safe, confidential space for you to express those difficult feelings that you may never have been able to do. My aim is for you to feel connected with aspects of your self, which might make you feel more able to explore more complex issues of your life experience, so that you can make better sense of your world and your way of being and interacting with the connections you make within that world.
01788 228348 View 01788 228348
Photo of Tracy Patricia O'Shea, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Tracy Patricia O'Shea
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
Life is not always easy and sometimes, when you are going through difficult times you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel or see your way through. Having someone to talk to who is not part of your family or friendship group, somewhere you can say exactly what you are really thinking or what you are afraid of, where you can take the mask off that you wear every day. It can be your place of calm in what may feel like a very chaotic world.... just to be....and be yourself.
Life is not always easy and sometimes, when you are going through difficult times you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel or see your way through. Having someone to talk to who is not part of your family or friendship group, somewhere you can say exactly what you are really thinking or what you are afraid of, where you can take the mask off that you wear every day. It can be your place of calm in what may feel like a very chaotic world.... just to be....and be yourself.
01908 103174 View 01908 103174
Photo of Denise Janvier-Wood, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Denise Janvier-Wood
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
Waitlist for new clients
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, maybe you have experienced trauma or have issues with relationships or family. Perhaps you're struggling with low self-esteem and wondering about who you are and how you fit in. You might just feel at a loss and need someone to listen. ​ I can offer you a calm, empathic, confidential space to voice and understand your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, maybe you have experienced trauma or have issues with relationships or family. Perhaps you're struggling with low self-esteem and wondering about who you are and how you fit in. You might just feel at a loss and need someone to listen. ​ I can offer you a calm, empathic, confidential space to voice and understand your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
01788 223255 View 01788 223255
Photo of Laura Hans Therapy, Psychotherapist in Newport Pagnell, England
Laura Hans Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Pagnell MK16
Hi, I'm Laura, a CBT & EMDR Therapist & mother of three. I’m on a mission to empower mothers and remind them how important it is to nurture and care for themselves as well as their children. Focussing on mental health and wellbeing, I support mums and mums-to-be on their journey to and through motherhood. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, bringing a baby into the world is a huge transition. Yes, it’s precious and beautiful, but it can be overwhelming and utterly soul-destroying at times. Wherever you are on your journey, and whatever you’re dealing with, I’m here to guide you through these feelings and out the other side.
Hi, I'm Laura, a CBT & EMDR Therapist & mother of three. I’m on a mission to empower mothers and remind them how important it is to nurture and care for themselves as well as their children. Focussing on mental health and wellbeing, I support mums and mums-to-be on their journey to and through motherhood. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, bringing a baby into the world is a huge transition. Yes, it’s precious and beautiful, but it can be overwhelming and utterly soul-destroying at times. Wherever you are on your journey, and whatever you’re dealing with, I’m here to guide you through these feelings and out the other side.
01908 103182 View 01908 103182

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sian Creegan, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Sian Creegan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK15
Are you fed up with overthinking every interaction & conversation you have? Perhaps you’ve had enough of constantly feeling like nothing you do is ‘good enough’. Are your unhelpful behaviours & habits holding you back in life or in your relationships? Do you need a space to talk freely & openly about your thoughts, feelings & experiences whilst being truly heard in an emphatic and non judgemental way without anyone else’s opinions? You may have pain or trauma in your past that you’ve not yet felt safe to or confident to explore & tackle. Or be looking to proactively set some goals. You might be feeling lost & not sure what you need.
Are you fed up with overthinking every interaction & conversation you have? Perhaps you’ve had enough of constantly feeling like nothing you do is ‘good enough’. Are your unhelpful behaviours & habits holding you back in life or in your relationships? Do you need a space to talk freely & openly about your thoughts, feelings & experiences whilst being truly heard in an emphatic and non judgemental way without anyone else’s opinions? You may have pain or trauma in your past that you’ve not yet felt safe to or confident to explore & tackle. Or be looking to proactively set some goals. You might be feeling lost & not sure what you need.
View
Photo of Livia M Pontes, Psychologist in Newport Pagnell, England
Livia M Pontes
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK15
I am a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist who offers cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), neuropsychological assessments, medico-legal assessments and I also work as an expert witness for the courts. I am passionate about helping my clients through their recovery journeys. I have a holistic approach to treatment, taking into consideration emotional, biological, social and cultural factors that impact a person’s mental health. Treatment is tailored to meet each clients’ unique goals. I have experience of working with children (from about 6 yrs old) up to any age in adulthood.
I am a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist who offers cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), neuropsychological assessments, medico-legal assessments and I also work as an expert witness for the courts. I am passionate about helping my clients through their recovery journeys. I have a holistic approach to treatment, taking into consideration emotional, biological, social and cultural factors that impact a person’s mental health. Treatment is tailored to meet each clients’ unique goals. I have experience of working with children (from about 6 yrs old) up to any age in adulthood.
01908 015440 View 01908 015440
Photo of Kate O'Donnell, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Kate O'Donnell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK15
Hello I’m Kate, I know that taking the first step to come to therapy can be daunting but my aim is to offer you a safe space where you can truly be yourself.
Hello I’m Kate, I know that taking the first step to come to therapy can be daunting but my aim is to offer you a safe space where you can truly be yourself.
01295 237366 View 01295 237366
Photo of Smita Davé, Psychotherapist in Newport Pagnell, England
Smita Davé
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK15
I work as a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist in an NHS CAMHS (Child and Adolesecent Services) service and a small private practice. I previously worked as nurse for 15 years in CAMHS and adult secondary care. I comepleted my MSc in CBT in 2015 and since then have worked as a CBT therapist in CAMHS and with adults. In my private practice I work with children, young people and adults with a variety of difficulties including mood and anxiety disorders including trauma focused CBT. I have also recenty trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desenstization Reprocessing) and offer EMDR to children, young people and adults.
I work as a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist in an NHS CAMHS (Child and Adolesecent Services) service and a small private practice. I previously worked as nurse for 15 years in CAMHS and adult secondary care. I comepleted my MSc in CBT in 2015 and since then have worked as a CBT therapist in CAMHS and with adults. In my private practice I work with children, young people and adults with a variety of difficulties including mood and anxiety disorders including trauma focused CBT. I have also recenty trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desenstization Reprocessing) and offer EMDR to children, young people and adults.
07956 308774 View 07956 308774
Photo of Helen Heather, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Helen Heather
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Olney MK46
I support people in finding hope for the future rather than existing in the past. Sometimes it can feel as though we are playing a role for other people, rather than being our genuine selves. Things can become overwhelming and feel as though you are having to face things on your own. You may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, stress, depression or grief. You're not alone. By seeking counselling, you are taking a first step towards having a better understanding of your needs and how to meet them, work through past experiences and feel more in control of your future. If this resonates with you, read on...
I support people in finding hope for the future rather than existing in the past. Sometimes it can feel as though we are playing a role for other people, rather than being our genuine selves. Things can become overwhelming and feel as though you are having to face things on your own. You may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, stress, depression or grief. You're not alone. By seeking counselling, you are taking a first step towards having a better understanding of your needs and how to meet them, work through past experiences and feel more in control of your future. If this resonates with you, read on...
01234 230236 View 01234 230236
Photo of Theresa Randall, Counsellor in Newport Pagnell, England
Theresa Randall
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK14  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you have suffered a bereavement or are a survivor of sexual abuse, then it might not be easy to talk about your thoughts and feeling with friends or family. Talking to someone that you can trust to be non-judgemental and who values you as a person, will help you to feel heard and safe. I can help you to have a better understanding of what you are feeling. Or, If you are just feeling feeling low and need someone to talk things through with, to be able to gain clarity over a situation that you might find yourself in, I can offer you a safe space to do that.
If you have suffered a bereavement or are a survivor of sexual abuse, then it might not be easy to talk about your thoughts and feeling with friends or family. Talking to someone that you can trust to be non-judgemental and who values you as a person, will help you to feel heard and safe. I can help you to have a better understanding of what you are feeling. Or, If you are just feeling feeling low and need someone to talk things through with, to be able to gain clarity over a situation that you might find yourself in, I can offer you a safe space to do that.
01908 015510 View 01908 015510
Photo of Laura Alcock, Psychologist in Newport Pagnell, England
Laura Alcock
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton Keynes MK14
Waitlist for new clients
I offer assessment and treatment of children and adults for the purposes of understanding difficulties and developing a treatment plan. I work with a range of difficulties including, challenging behaviour, depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, bipolar disorder, trauma, emotional regulation and self-esteem. I offer functional assessments of behaviour in children, to facilitate understanding and management of this. I also offer modified therapeutic interventions to support clients to understand their diagnosis of autism and related emotional well-being.
I offer assessment and treatment of children and adults for the purposes of understanding difficulties and developing a treatment plan. I work with a range of difficulties including, challenging behaviour, depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, bipolar disorder, trauma, emotional regulation and self-esteem. I offer functional assessments of behaviour in children, to facilitate understanding and management of this. I also offer modified therapeutic interventions to support clients to understand their diagnosis of autism and related emotional well-being.
01908 983687 View 01908 983687
Photo of Blume Psychology Ltd , Psychologist in Newport Pagnell, England
Blume Psychology Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK14
We work with people who suspect they or their children may be neurodivergent, who wish to explore the way their brain works, their strengths and differences. Our aim is to help clients understand themselves, their neurodevelopmental profile and maximise their potential and lead fulfilled lives. If people suspect they or their child may be autistic, have ADHD or cognitive difficulties then our NICE compliant assessment service conducts a thorough assessment of clients’ neurodivergent profile, providing insight, understanding and a diagnosis where appropriate. Personal and specialised post- diagnostic support is available.
We work with people who suspect they or their children may be neurodivergent, who wish to explore the way their brain works, their strengths and differences. Our aim is to help clients understand themselves, their neurodevelopmental profile and maximise their potential and lead fulfilled lives. If people suspect they or their child may be autistic, have ADHD or cognitive difficulties then our NICE compliant assessment service conducts a thorough assessment of clients’ neurodivergent profile, providing insight, understanding and a diagnosis where appropriate. Personal and specialised post- diagnostic support is available.
01908 103164 View 01908 103164

See more therapy options for Newport Pagnell

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Newport Pagnell

10+

Average cost per session

£60

Counsellors in Newport Pagnell who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Self Esteem
83% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
67% Bereavement
67% Parenting

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% AXA PPP
50% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Aviva

How Counsellors in Newport Pagnell see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Newport Pagnell?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, 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 postcode into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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

Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

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

Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.

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, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

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. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.

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 postcode.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.