Counselling in Bristol

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Photo of Christopher James Westray, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Christopher James Westray
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, anger or low mood? I am an experienced and passionate psychotherapist. I hold a robust space in which we target and process the source of distress. What I practice is not just ‘talk therapy’, I use powerful, evidence based protocols to help people into their calm, confident, playful and most integrated self. I can help you find structure and stability when things feel chaotic. Therapy can help when it feels like no one around you understands what it’s like to be you and when the way you feel makes no sense. If this resonates and you would like to start making changes please do get in touch.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, anger or low mood? I am an experienced and passionate psychotherapist. I hold a robust space in which we target and process the source of distress. What I practice is not just ‘talk therapy’, I use powerful, evidence based protocols to help people into their calm, confident, playful and most integrated self. I can help you find structure and stability when things feel chaotic. Therapy can help when it feels like no one around you understands what it’s like to be you and when the way you feel makes no sense. If this resonates and you would like to start making changes please do get in touch.
0117 325 4331 View 0117 325 4331
Photo of Chris Northey-Vyse, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Chris Northey-Vyse
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
Waitlist for new clients
Hi I'm Chris, an accredited CBT therapist, Dramatherapist and EMDR therapist. I work with children, young people and adults that are struggling with a range of mental health difficulties. I have been a therapist for over a decade and I have worked with all age ranges. My education, training and experience in multiple different settings means I am able to relate to what you might need, allowing us to create an effective treatment plan together. I have a collaborative approach as I know that you are the expert of your experiences. We work together to find the tools and techniques that will best help you.
Hi I'm Chris, an accredited CBT therapist, Dramatherapist and EMDR therapist. I work with children, young people and adults that are struggling with a range of mental health difficulties. I have been a therapist for over a decade and I have worked with all age ranges. My education, training and experience in multiple different settings means I am able to relate to what you might need, allowing us to create an effective treatment plan together. I have a collaborative approach as I know that you are the expert of your experiences. We work together to find the tools and techniques that will best help you.
01225 435158 View 01225 435158
Photo of Dr Samreen Bhaidani, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Samreen Bhaidani
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
With over sixteen years of professional experience, I am highly accomplished and have extensive experience of working in the NHS, MIND and Off the Record with clients with a range of mental health needs. I offer a calm safe space where together we can find clarity on what has brought you to seek counselling. At times it can be very confusing and frustrating when we can't make sense of our emotions and often feel stuck or overwhelmed. I work collaboratively, cultivating a mindful and inquisitive approach to understand how clients construe their inner reality and life experiences, which paves the way for more fulfilment in daily life.
With over sixteen years of professional experience, I am highly accomplished and have extensive experience of working in the NHS, MIND and Off the Record with clients with a range of mental health needs. I offer a calm safe space where together we can find clarity on what has brought you to seek counselling. At times it can be very confusing and frustrating when we can't make sense of our emotions and often feel stuck or overwhelmed. I work collaboratively, cultivating a mindful and inquisitive approach to understand how clients construe their inner reality and life experiences, which paves the way for more fulfilment in daily life.
07493 544828 View 07493 544828
Photo of Zoe Hobson, Counsellor, MBACP
Zoe Hobson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I am passionate about supporting people’s mental health, growth and personal development; seeking to empower people to achieve their goals and to make positive choices and changes in their life. Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions, a significant life change, relationships, family dynamics or coming to terms with your past, I can support you to understand yourself and your situation better by offering a place to explore your experiences, thoughts and feelings in a completely non-judgemental, warm and supportive space.
I am passionate about supporting people’s mental health, growth and personal development; seeking to empower people to achieve their goals and to make positive choices and changes in their life. Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions, a significant life change, relationships, family dynamics or coming to terms with your past, I can support you to understand yourself and your situation better by offering a place to explore your experiences, thoughts and feelings in a completely non-judgemental, warm and supportive space.
01275 402776 View 01275 402776
Photo of Emily Eden Jacobs - Eden Therapy, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Eden Therapy
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS9
It takes courage to explore therapy, and I’m here to support you as we navigate this journey together. As a trainee humanistic integrative psychotherapist studying at the Bath Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling, my approach is centered on creating a safe, compassionate space where we can work collaboratively to understand your experiences, feelings, and aspirations.
It takes courage to explore therapy, and I’m here to support you as we navigate this journey together. As a trainee humanistic integrative psychotherapist studying at the Bath Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling, my approach is centered on creating a safe, compassionate space where we can work collaboratively to understand your experiences, feelings, and aspirations.
0117 463 3918 View 0117 463 3918
Photo of Deborah Jayne Gardner - Inner World Therapies, Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Inner World Therapies
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ptsd, and relationship issues.
I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ptsd, and relationship issues.
0117 456 2072 View 0117 456 2072
Photo of Gloria Martinez Garcia, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, UKCP Trainee
Gloria Martinez Garcia
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
I have benefited myself from this type of therapy for 6 years. It has helped me to understand myself better and have more choices about how to respond in different situations. It also could treat depression, co-dependency, addiction, loss of purpose in life, life crisis, grief, perimenopausal, anger issues, and trauma. I could hold space for diversity around sexuality and gender.
I have benefited myself from this type of therapy for 6 years. It has helped me to understand myself better and have more choices about how to respond in different situations. It also could treat depression, co-dependency, addiction, loss of purpose in life, life crisis, grief, perimenopausal, anger issues, and trauma. I could hold space for diversity around sexuality and gender.
0117 463 7071 View 0117 463 7071
Photo of Steve Harland, Counsellor, MBACP
Steve Harland
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS6
I am currently offering in person, online video and telephone counselling by appointment. If you are currently looking for a counsellor it may well be that you have reached a point of change. You can no longer put up with the current situation you feel you are in. You may be suffering anxious feelings or low mood, or be struggling with anger and frustration, or any number of other concerns. These are feelings that we all experience from time to time but they can be limiting and have an effect on our general happiness and satisfaction with life.
I am currently offering in person, online video and telephone counselling by appointment. If you are currently looking for a counsellor it may well be that you have reached a point of change. You can no longer put up with the current situation you feel you are in. You may be suffering anxious feelings or low mood, or be struggling with anger and frustration, or any number of other concerns. These are feelings that we all experience from time to time but they can be limiting and have an effect on our general happiness and satisfaction with life.
0117 456 2302 View 0117 456 2302
Hellena Bitsios
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
My work is underpinned by Buddhist principles and practice and is strongly influenced by Jungian and Humanistic psychology as well as Family Constellation principles and Shamanic Practice. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space where you can explore the feelings, the thoughts, and relational patterns which get in the way of you fully living.
My work is underpinned by Buddhist principles and practice and is strongly influenced by Jungian and Humanistic psychology as well as Family Constellation principles and Shamanic Practice. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space where you can explore the feelings, the thoughts, and relational patterns which get in the way of you fully living.
0117 463 7961 View 0117 463 7961
Photo of Charlotte Nash, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Charlotte Nash
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an accredited cognitive behavioural therapist with the British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). I have 13 years experience of working in NHS Talking Therapies services in Bristol. Prior to this I have had several years experience working in social care, working with parental mental health issues and safeguarding children. Whatever your concerns and problems, I can offer you a confidential, non-judgemental and safe space to talk about the things that are concerning you and to explore helpful ways to address these issues together. I offer online therapy only.
I am an accredited cognitive behavioural therapist with the British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). I have 13 years experience of working in NHS Talking Therapies services in Bristol. Prior to this I have had several years experience working in social care, working with parental mental health issues and safeguarding children. Whatever your concerns and problems, I can offer you a confidential, non-judgemental and safe space to talk about the things that are concerning you and to explore helpful ways to address these issues together. I offer online therapy only.
0117 463 0818 View 0117 463 0818
Photo of Amanda Louise Roberts, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Amanda Louise Roberts
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS7
Hi, My name is Mandy and I have been told I am a down to earth warm hearted person. I mainly use the person-centred approach where the client is seen as the expert on themselves. This I understand can seem challenging as often people want an expert to guide them or tell them what to do particularly if you are feeling lost and confused and not sure how to feel better. What I love about this approach mainly created by Carl Rogers is that it makes a lot of sense to me. His view is that everyone has the ability given the right conditions can grow and evolve as a person, feeling more aware, happy and able to cope better with life.
Hi, My name is Mandy and I have been told I am a down to earth warm hearted person. I mainly use the person-centred approach where the client is seen as the expert on themselves. This I understand can seem challenging as often people want an expert to guide them or tell them what to do particularly if you are feeling lost and confused and not sure how to feel better. What I love about this approach mainly created by Carl Rogers is that it makes a lot of sense to me. His view is that everyone has the ability given the right conditions can grow and evolve as a person, feeling more aware, happy and able to cope better with life.
01454 804784 View 01454 804784
Photo of Dr Sara Schamborg, Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Dr Sara Schamborg
Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Have you been struggling with relationships, your mood and/ or to cope for some time? Do you find that past experiences interfere with your present life? Are you looking for a psychologist that can provide you with a safe and non-judgemental space to explore, understand, and process your life patterns or difficulties? Then you have come to the right place! I can support you to explore and heal from these life patterns or difficulties, as well as to achieve meaningful and lasting change.
Have you been struggling with relationships, your mood and/ or to cope for some time? Do you find that past experiences interfere with your present life? Are you looking for a psychologist that can provide you with a safe and non-judgemental space to explore, understand, and process your life patterns or difficulties? Then you have come to the right place! I can support you to explore and heal from these life patterns or difficulties, as well as to achieve meaningful and lasting change.
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Photo of Joe Pawson, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Joe Pawson
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
People come to psychotherapy for all kinds of different reasons. Perhaps a particular issue is making life very difficult, or maybe you have more general feelings of discontentment, unease or unhappiness that you want to address. One-to-one psychotherapy can help by providing a safe, therapeutic space in which you feel able to explore and express difficult thoughts, feelings and memories. This process of deep exploration helps you to grow and develop in areas that have previously felt stuck, painful or difficult to resolve.
People come to psychotherapy for all kinds of different reasons. Perhaps a particular issue is making life very difficult, or maybe you have more general feelings of discontentment, unease or unhappiness that you want to address. One-to-one psychotherapy can help by providing a safe, therapeutic space in which you feel able to explore and express difficult thoughts, feelings and memories. This process of deep exploration helps you to grow and develop in areas that have previously felt stuck, painful or difficult to resolve.
0117 463 3300 View 0117 463 3300
Photo of Miro Cansky, Counsellor, MBACP
Miro Cansky
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Update: As of April 2025, I am OPEN to new enquiries. When life is difficult, it is often a signal that we need to pause and listen. Discomfort, hurt and struggle are experiences that are waiting to be seen, recognised, acknowledged and loved. Like uninvited visitors, they knock on our doors saying, ‘Please let me in.’ What if it were possible to give voice to those aspects of you that have been pushed away or abandoned? This is what psychotherapy can offer – a creative space in which you can learn to listen deeply to all the facets of who you are.
Update: As of April 2025, I am OPEN to new enquiries. When life is difficult, it is often a signal that we need to pause and listen. Discomfort, hurt and struggle are experiences that are waiting to be seen, recognised, acknowledged and loved. Like uninvited visitors, they knock on our doors saying, ‘Please let me in.’ What if it were possible to give voice to those aspects of you that have been pushed away or abandoned? This is what psychotherapy can offer – a creative space in which you can learn to listen deeply to all the facets of who you are.
0117 456 5396 View 0117 456 5396
Photo of Tracy Norman, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracy Norman
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS7
I work in private practice and in Secondary schools with many mental health issues such as anxiety, self-harm, low mood, gender dysphoria, self-esteem and confidence. In this difficult world, especially after lockdown, there are so many teenagers struggling emotionally and it is affecting confidence, friendships, family life and school. They want to understand how to understand and manage these emotions in order to be able to process them and move forward. I also work with SEND young people, struggling to understand themselves and why they may struggle emotionally.
I work in private practice and in Secondary schools with many mental health issues such as anxiety, self-harm, low mood, gender dysphoria, self-esteem and confidence. In this difficult world, especially after lockdown, there are so many teenagers struggling emotionally and it is affecting confidence, friendships, family life and school. They want to understand how to understand and manage these emotions in order to be able to process them and move forward. I also work with SEND young people, struggling to understand themselves and why they may struggle emotionally.
01275 402988 View 01275 402988
Photo of Maria Lucia Guarnieri, Psychotherapist, GMBPsS
Maria Lucia Guarnieri
Psychotherapist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Have you tried opening up about your concerns to a friend but you didn't feel heard, or the advice wasn't right for you? Does it feel like there is something you need to work on, but you don't know where to start? Well, maybe starting therapy is the right step forward. I offer you a safe space, where you can explore your strenghts and not only your 'issues'. Initially we will evaluate your needs and goals, your motivations towards change and how you relate to others and to your mind and body. I will often ask for your feedback, and therapeutic objectives are co-designed with you.
Have you tried opening up about your concerns to a friend but you didn't feel heard, or the advice wasn't right for you? Does it feel like there is something you need to work on, but you don't know where to start? Well, maybe starting therapy is the right step forward. I offer you a safe space, where you can explore your strenghts and not only your 'issues'. Initially we will evaluate your needs and goals, your motivations towards change and how you relate to others and to your mind and body. I will often ask for your feedback, and therapeutic objectives are co-designed with you.
0117 463 7328 View 0117 463 7328
Photo of Hannah Raine-Smith, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Hannah Raine-Smith
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I am an integrative therapist specialising in using eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to treat a wide range of psychological issues. I am highly trained in psychotherapy, neuroscience and trauma and believe that our current issues can often be traced back to early adverse experiences in childhood. Compared to standard talking therapy EMDR generally takes a shorter amount of time to get to the root cause of the issue. Rather than just dealing with symptom management (like CBT), EMDR therapy works directly with the cause of your distress.
I am an integrative therapist specialising in using eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to treat a wide range of psychological issues. I am highly trained in psychotherapy, neuroscience and trauma and believe that our current issues can often be traced back to early adverse experiences in childhood. Compared to standard talking therapy EMDR generally takes a shorter amount of time to get to the root cause of the issue. Rather than just dealing with symptom management (like CBT), EMDR therapy works directly with the cause of your distress.
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Photo of Dr Kirstie Fleetwood Meade, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Kirstie Fleetwood Meade
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
I am a holistic psychologist: Chartered Counselling Psychologist, Systemic Practitioner and Executive Coach. I am passionate about facilitating greater mind-body connection in pursuit of authentic, meaningful living. I am currently offering short and medium term therapy or coaching. My areas of specialism are anxiety, improving relationships, ADHD, and processing trauma. Alongside this is my coaching work for professional women: tackling imposter syndrome, accelerating your career, returning to work or moving past limiting blocks or beliefs. I am currently available and taking on new clients.
I am a holistic psychologist: Chartered Counselling Psychologist, Systemic Practitioner and Executive Coach. I am passionate about facilitating greater mind-body connection in pursuit of authentic, meaningful living. I am currently offering short and medium term therapy or coaching. My areas of specialism are anxiety, improving relationships, ADHD, and processing trauma. Alongside this is my coaching work for professional women: tackling imposter syndrome, accelerating your career, returning to work or moving past limiting blocks or beliefs. I am currently available and taking on new clients.
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Photo of Sarah Lock, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Lock
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m an experienced Psychodynamic therapist and I presently work with adults and students privately and within the education sector. I understand that life can be challenging and it's not always easy to talk about our issues. I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings and gain insight into your life. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on unconscious processes as they are manifested in a person's present behaviour. It emphasises the importance of the individual's personal history and the role that past experiences play in current behaviour.
Hi, I’m an experienced Psychodynamic therapist and I presently work with adults and students privately and within the education sector. I understand that life can be challenging and it's not always easy to talk about our issues. I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings and gain insight into your life. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on unconscious processes as they are manifested in a person's present behaviour. It emphasises the importance of the individual's personal history and the role that past experiences play in current behaviour.
01275 408965 View 01275 408965
Photo of Andrew Jordan, Counsellor, MBACP
Andrew Jordan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
It is important that therapy is a journey which we take together, providing you with the tools and skills needed to equip you for a better, more fulfilling life. My aim is to create the optimum environment and a focus on relational psychotherapy to provide my clients with the best outcome for them. This will enable you to view your challenges from a different perspective and help you to make more useful decisions for yourself. In our therapy sessions, we’ll work together to reduce your sense of discomfort and distress in a confidential, safe environment.
It is important that therapy is a journey which we take together, providing you with the tools and skills needed to equip you for a better, more fulfilling life. My aim is to create the optimum environment and a focus on relational psychotherapy to provide my clients with the best outcome for them. This will enable you to view your challenges from a different perspective and help you to make more useful decisions for yourself. In our therapy sessions, we’ll work together to reduce your sense of discomfort and distress in a confidential, safe environment.
01454 801762 View 01454 801762
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See more therapy options for Bristol

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Bristol

800+

Average cost per session

£60

Counsellors in Bristol who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
84% Depression
84% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
76% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
59% Bereavement

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% Aviva
58% AXA PPP
51% Bupa

How Counsellors in Bristol see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Bristol?

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.