Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Wells

Photo of Dr Lorna Stewart, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lorna Stewart
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Wells BA5
I specialise in ASD, ADHD, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), ACT, and trauma-informed therapies, developing strong and healthy therapeutic relationships.
I am an experienced multi-trained Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Management Consultant, with 31 years in the NHS and private sector, and 19 years in private practice. I have offered consultation to executive teams in improvement, delivered large scale change, set up mental health services, and worked clinically in child and adult mental health services. Today, I am the Clinical Director of Equilibrium Practice. We offer a range of mental health services: psychological assessments, therapy, medico-legal services, training, practitioner supervision, organisational consultation, blog writing, keynote speaking and podcast content.
I specialise in ASD, ADHD, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), ACT, and trauma-informed therapies, developing strong and healthy therapeutic relationships.
I am an experienced multi-trained Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Management Consultant, with 31 years in the NHS and private sector, and 19 years in private practice. I have offered consultation to executive teams in improvement, delivered large scale change, set up mental health services, and worked clinically in child and adult mental health services. Today, I am the Clinical Director of Equilibrium Practice. We offer a range of mental health services: psychological assessments, therapy, medico-legal services, training, practitioner supervision, organisational consultation, blog writing, keynote speaking and podcast content.
01749 608294 View 01749 608294
Photo of Samantha Swallow, Counsellor, MBACP
Samantha Swallow
Counsellor, MBACP
Wells BA5
I am a person-centred counsellor - meaning that I will aim to create a relationship of connection, acceptance and empathy.
Hi there, I’m Sam and I am a BACP registered person-centred Counsellor (and also a qualified CBT Therapist) and I work with adults, children and adolescents. I understand the importance of a safe space to explore and understand feelings, and to consider and become aware of unhelpful patterns of behaviour. Together we can discover how to make positive changes and manage difficult feelings and emotions. I have a number of years experience working in a NHS commissioned service around common mental health difficulties. I want to help you reach your goals - we will explore the past and present to help you to heal and thrive.
I am a person-centred counsellor - meaning that I will aim to create a relationship of connection, acceptance and empathy.
Hi there, I’m Sam and I am a BACP registered person-centred Counsellor (and also a qualified CBT Therapist) and I work with adults, children and adolescents. I understand the importance of a safe space to explore and understand feelings, and to consider and become aware of unhelpful patterns of behaviour. Together we can discover how to make positive changes and manage difficult feelings and emotions. I have a number of years experience working in a NHS commissioned service around common mental health difficulties. I want to help you reach your goals - we will explore the past and present to help you to heal and thrive.
01749 608308 View 01749 608308
Photo of Andrew Ayers - Andrew Ayers Talking Therapies Ltd, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Andrew Ayers Talking Therapies Ltd
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Serves Area
I am also trained in EMDR and other third wave Approaches, including ACT and Schema focused interventions.
I have worked in the field of mental health for over 25 years, and this has afforded me the opportunity to experience and work collaboratively with clients from a range of difficulties and backgrounds, using evidence based treatments and see how effective and transformative they can be. I have extensive experience in working with anxiety and Mood disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety (Excessive worry); Social Anxiety; Panic Attacks; Phobia's (animals, weather, emetophobia etc); OCD; Eating Disorders (Bulimia, Binge Eating disorder, Restrictive Eating); PTSD; Depression and Low self esteem.
I am also trained in EMDR and other third wave Approaches, including ACT and Schema focused interventions.
I have worked in the field of mental health for over 25 years, and this has afforded me the opportunity to experience and work collaboratively with clients from a range of difficulties and backgrounds, using evidence based treatments and see how effective and transformative they can be. I have extensive experience in working with anxiety and Mood disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety (Excessive worry); Social Anxiety; Panic Attacks; Phobia's (animals, weather, emetophobia etc); OCD; Eating Disorders (Bulimia, Binge Eating disorder, Restrictive Eating); PTSD; Depression and Low self esteem.
01225 985715 View 01225 985715
Photo of Tony Humphreys, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Tony Humphreys
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Before I tell a little about myself, allow me to say, well done for getting this far! I appreciate that many people become a little anxious at the prospect of an intense atmosphere in a counselling room. Thats not how I work though. My first aim is to help you relax. To see that yes, it is a 'safe and confidential environment for you to talk about anything that you want'. But there's no need for it to be a heavy and intense atmosphere either. I believe we can be practical, pragmatic and make some real changes without sacrificing empathy or compassion.
Before I tell a little about myself, allow me to say, well done for getting this far! I appreciate that many people become a little anxious at the prospect of an intense atmosphere in a counselling room. Thats not how I work though. My first aim is to help you relax. To see that yes, it is a 'safe and confidential environment for you to talk about anything that you want'. But there's no need for it to be a heavy and intense atmosphere either. I believe we can be practical, pragmatic and make some real changes without sacrificing empathy or compassion.
01749 601178 View 01749 601178

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rhiannon King - Dr Rhiannon King Couples & Relationship Therapy, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Rhiannon King Couples & Relationship Therapy
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
Your relationship matters! Are you struggling with relationship, marital or family issues? Are you wanting to improve or enhance your relationship? Perhaps you’re both at a crossroads where your future as a couple seems uncertain? Maybe you’re considering separating or divorce? Are you feeling hurt, disconnected, stuck, anxious, frustrated, angry, lonely, misunderstood, overwhelmed, sad or scared? Are you struggling to communicate, connect, manage conflicts or difficult emotions, heal from loss of trust or an infidelity, establish or maintain healthy boundaries, manage family issues or adapt to change, life events or transitions?
Your relationship matters! Are you struggling with relationship, marital or family issues? Are you wanting to improve or enhance your relationship? Perhaps you’re both at a crossroads where your future as a couple seems uncertain? Maybe you’re considering separating or divorce? Are you feeling hurt, disconnected, stuck, anxious, frustrated, angry, lonely, misunderstood, overwhelmed, sad or scared? Are you struggling to communicate, connect, manage conflicts or difficult emotions, heal from loss of trust or an infidelity, establish or maintain healthy boundaries, manage family issues or adapt to change, life events or transitions?
0131 381 8066 View 0131 381 8066
Photo of Ruth Hubbard, Counsellor, SNCPS Acc.
Ruth Hubbard
Counsellor, SNCPS Acc.
Somerton TA11
I will support you through the process to find understanding, peace and acceptance of self.
I can help you find a path forward by making sense of, and learning from our past, engaging with the present & creating future hope and possibilities. Are you struggling? Attempting to gain a better understanding of yourself and find ways to better cope with life's ups and downs? Together we can find clarity, build resilience, and help you transform in a supportive and non-judgmental space. You can learn to make friends with your nervous system, discover more about yourself and develop emotional regulation skills that will become your toolbox for life.
I will support you through the process to find understanding, peace and acceptance of self.
I can help you find a path forward by making sense of, and learning from our past, engaging with the present & creating future hope and possibilities. Are you struggling? Attempting to gain a better understanding of yourself and find ways to better cope with life's ups and downs? Together we can find clarity, build resilience, and help you transform in a supportive and non-judgmental space. You can learn to make friends with your nervous system, discover more about yourself and develop emotional regulation skills that will become your toolbox for life.
01458 552337 View 01458 552337
Photo of Pam Marion Susan Fitzpatrick, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Pam Marion Susan Fitzpatrick
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Bristol BS15
A central focus of my work is supporting individuals to explore acceptance of their condition whilst finding helpful management strategies.
I care deeply about each person I have the privilege to support and am passionate about working collaboratively to help you feel more in control and find a sense of peace. With over 14 years’ experience as a psychotherapist, I’ve supported clients through a wide range of challenges including OCD, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, panic, depression, and trauma. I also have extensive experience in helping people manage chronic health conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Post-COVID Syndrome, Chronic Pain, Functional Neurological Disorder, migraines, vestibular dysfunction, and Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD).
A central focus of my work is supporting individuals to explore acceptance of their condition whilst finding helpful management strategies.
I care deeply about each person I have the privilege to support and am passionate about working collaboratively to help you feel more in control and find a sense of peace. With over 14 years’ experience as a psychotherapist, I’ve supported clients through a wide range of challenges including OCD, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, panic, depression, and trauma. I also have extensive experience in helping people manage chronic health conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Post-COVID Syndrome, Chronic Pain, Functional Neurological Disorder, migraines, vestibular dysfunction, and Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD).
01446 501531 View 01446 501531
Photo of Abbie Marillat, Counsellor, MBACP
Abbie Marillat
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel heavy when you're used to staying strong and supporting everyone around you. You may be the person others rely on, while your own needs have quietly taken a back seat. Perhaps you're supporting a loved one, juggling responsibilities, or carrying worries that rarely leave your mind. When life becomes centred around everyone else's needs, it can become difficult to hear your own voice. Together, we'll create the space to slow down, make sense of what's happening and reconnect with yourself.
Life can feel heavy when you're used to staying strong and supporting everyone around you. You may be the person others rely on, while your own needs have quietly taken a back seat. Perhaps you're supporting a loved one, juggling responsibilities, or carrying worries that rarely leave your mind. When life becomes centred around everyone else's needs, it can become difficult to hear your own voice. Together, we'll create the space to slow down, make sense of what's happening and reconnect with yourself.
020 4572 7325 View 020 4572 7325
Photo of Amy Polson - Amy Polson at Soft Ground Practice, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Amy Polson at Soft Ground Practice
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
Integrative & trauma-informed therapy for deep-thinkers, highly-sensitive people and those who feel lost, alone or out of place. I provide a neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ celebratory space for young professionals and students navigating anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationships and the search for meaning. At Soft Ground Practice, I honour the whole of who you are - not as a problem to be fixed, but as a person navigating a complex world. Together we can help you reconnect with your self, process painful experiences, and find a deeper sense of fulfilment.
Integrative & trauma-informed therapy for deep-thinkers, highly-sensitive people and those who feel lost, alone or out of place. I provide a neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ celebratory space for young professionals and students navigating anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationships and the search for meaning. At Soft Ground Practice, I honour the whole of who you are - not as a problem to be fixed, but as a person navigating a complex world. Together we can help you reconnect with your self, process painful experiences, and find a deeper sense of fulfilment.
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Photo of George Berry, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
George Berry
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS5
Third wave traditions comprise of acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT) and compassion focused therapy (CFT).
I’m George, a University of Oxford trained Therapist. I am well versed in a variety of therapy and mindfulness/ meditation traditions, and integrate a blend of therapeutic approaches and techniques within my practice. That being said, I have specialist training in the three waves of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). The first wave of CBT focuses on improving our wellbeing by changing our behaviour. The second wave adds techniques to support us in changing our thoughts. The third wave includes additional techniques to support how we relate to our experience.
Third wave traditions comprise of acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT) and compassion focused therapy (CFT).
I’m George, a University of Oxford trained Therapist. I am well versed in a variety of therapy and mindfulness/ meditation traditions, and integrate a blend of therapeutic approaches and techniques within my practice. That being said, I have specialist training in the three waves of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). The first wave of CBT focuses on improving our wellbeing by changing our behaviour. The second wave adds techniques to support us in changing our thoughts. The third wave includes additional techniques to support how we relate to our experience.
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Photo of Jason Spendelow, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Jason Spendelow
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I am trained in several evidence-based talking therapies (e.g., Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, CBT; Mindfulness; Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, ACT; Compassion-Focused Therapy; CFT).
Many people are working hard to hold it together on the outside while suffering underneath. That's where I can help. I am a Clinical & Coaching Psychologist with 20 years' experience helping people navigate a range of psychological (e.g., low self confidence), mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety), and neurodiversity-related (ASD) challenges at home and in the workplace. My approach is down-to-earth, practical, structured, collaborative, and warm. I have particular expertise helping people manage mental health issues and neurodiversity in the workplace. I am also an active researcher and professor of clinical psychology.
I am trained in several evidence-based talking therapies (e.g., Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, CBT; Mindfulness; Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, ACT; Compassion-Focused Therapy; CFT).
Many people are working hard to hold it together on the outside while suffering underneath. That's where I can help. I am a Clinical & Coaching Psychologist with 20 years' experience helping people navigate a range of psychological (e.g., low self confidence), mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety), and neurodiversity-related (ASD) challenges at home and in the workplace. My approach is down-to-earth, practical, structured, collaborative, and warm. I have particular expertise helping people manage mental health issues and neurodiversity in the workplace. I am also an active researcher and professor of clinical psychology.
020 4652 6952 View 020 4652 6952
Photo of Lucy Sanderson, Counsellor, MBACP
Lucy Sanderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Bristol BS37
Waitlist for new clients
This may mean the incorporation of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), as well as the use of Creative and Symbolic strategies.
I work with adults, young people and children from age 9 upwards, tackling a range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, self-harm, and relational issues. I integrate different strategies into my approach including CBT, ACT and SFBT and Transactional Analysis
This may mean the incorporation of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), as well as the use of Creative and Symbolic strategies.
I work with adults, young people and children from age 9 upwards, tackling a range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self esteem, self-harm, and relational issues. I integrate different strategies into my approach including CBT, ACT and SFBT and Transactional Analysis
01454 802792 View 01454 802792
Photo of Marina Moran Strawberry Fields, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Marina Moran Strawberry Fields
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychologist, I specialise in helping people who didn't feel good enough as children, and still don't feel good enough now, to change the way they think, feel and act so they can be kinder to the person they are and become the person they want to be.
What makes me different is the use of Emotional Freedom Techniques and EMDR during our sessions. EFT is a practical self-help healing tool which can help you treat issues related to emotional distress, physical pain and performance. Let's get your life back on track!
As a psychologist, I specialise in helping people who didn't feel good enough as children, and still don't feel good enough now, to change the way they think, feel and act so they can be kinder to the person they are and become the person they want to be.
What makes me different is the use of Emotional Freedom Techniques and EMDR during our sessions. EFT is a practical self-help healing tool which can help you treat issues related to emotional distress, physical pain and performance. Let's get your life back on track!
01841 550538 View 01841 550538
Photo of Megan Benham, Counsellor, MBACP
Megan Benham
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Taunton TA1
Welcome, I’m Megan, an Integrative Counsellor based in central Exeter and Taunton. I offer a warm, accepting space where we can explore what’s happening for you, free from pressure or judgement. My approach is rooted in the belief that we all have the capacity for healing, growth, and change – even if it may not feel like it.
Welcome, I’m Megan, an Integrative Counsellor based in central Exeter and Taunton. I offer a warm, accepting space where we can explore what’s happening for you, free from pressure or judgement. My approach is rooted in the belief that we all have the capacity for healing, growth, and change – even if it may not feel like it.
01392 542856 View 01392 542856
Photo of Dr Sophie Thomas, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sophie Thomas
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I work with children, young people and their families, often when things are feeling difficult or overwhelming. Some of the reasons families have worked with me include: support to understand and manage feelings of anxiety, depression or frustration; difficulties with emotion-regulation; and difficulties within family relationships, including parent-infant and parent-child relationships.
I work with children, young people and their families, often when things are feeling difficult or overwhelming. Some of the reasons families have worked with me include: support to understand and manage feelings of anxiety, depression or frustration; difficulties with emotion-regulation; and difficulties within family relationships, including parent-infant and parent-child relationships.
01633 603906 View 01633 603906
Photo of Carmen Morales - Carmen Morales - Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Carmen Morales - Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
I support adults, couples, and groups struggling with depression and anxiety disorders - GAD, OCD, PTSD, panic, phobias and body dysmorphia. I also attend to low self-esteem, perfectionism, and interpersonal difficulties. I have specialised in supporting neurodiversity from an affirmative-care approach, moving away from "pathologising symptoms", towards understanding individual needs, goals and wishes. Additionally, I offer regular and ad hoc clinical supervision, as well as neurodiversity-specific supervision for other clinicians.
I support adults, couples, and groups struggling with depression and anxiety disorders - GAD, OCD, PTSD, panic, phobias and body dysmorphia. I also attend to low self-esteem, perfectionism, and interpersonal difficulties. I have specialised in supporting neurodiversity from an affirmative-care approach, moving away from "pathologising symptoms", towards understanding individual needs, goals and wishes. Additionally, I offer regular and ad hoc clinical supervision, as well as neurodiversity-specific supervision for other clinicians.
023 8001 2558 View 023 8001 2558
Photo of Dr Steph Davis, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Steph Davis
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
I often use acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), compassion focused therapy (CFT) and am accredited in EMDR.
I aim to create a space where we can explore your difficulties in a way that feels respectful and in line with your goals for attending sessions. I am flexible in the approach taken, to ensure that the work is meaningful to you. I believe in this being a shared responsibility and I do encourage you to engage in the work between sessions.
I often use acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), compassion focused therapy (CFT) and am accredited in EMDR.
I aim to create a space where we can explore your difficulties in a way that feels respectful and in line with your goals for attending sessions. I am flexible in the approach taken, to ensure that the work is meaningful to you. I believe in this being a shared responsibility and I do encourage you to engage in the work between sessions.
01454 807510 View 01454 807510
Photo of Dr Holly Milling, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Holly Milling
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr Holly Milling B.Sc., M.sc., DClin.Psy, PG.Dip. is a registered Clinical Psychologist, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural therapist, and Mindfulness teacher. She is a trusted and experienced Behavioural Sleep Medicine specialist with years of experience working with neurodiversity. Holly also works for the NHS training and supervising clinicians. Whether you are looking for support with your sleep health or to explore possible ADHD, you will receive compassionate & evidence-based assessment and treatment, all from the comfort of your own home or office (via our online clinic).
Dr Holly Milling B.Sc., M.sc., DClin.Psy, PG.Dip. is a registered Clinical Psychologist, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural therapist, and Mindfulness teacher. She is a trusted and experienced Behavioural Sleep Medicine specialist with years of experience working with neurodiversity. Holly also works for the NHS training and supervising clinicians. Whether you are looking for support with your sleep health or to explore possible ADHD, you will receive compassionate & evidence-based assessment and treatment, all from the comfort of your own home or office (via our online clinic).
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Photo of Romany Leach, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Romany Leach
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Bath BA1
My core approach is relational psychodynamic therapy, with integration from CBT, CFT, ACT and existential therapy where helpful.
Adults who may look capable on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck or under strain inwardly, or caught in repeating dynamics (internal, relational, emotional) are often drawn to my practice. This includes high-achieving professionals, creatives, and those navigating anxiety, burnout, trauma, relationship and attachment issues, identity or self-worth difficulties, and major life transitions. I offer a thoughtful, relational space to explore both present difficulties and the deeper emotional and unconscious patterns beneath them, helping you move towards greater clarity, resilience and lasting change.
My core approach is relational psychodynamic therapy, with integration from CBT, CFT, ACT and existential therapy where helpful.
Adults who may look capable on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck or under strain inwardly, or caught in repeating dynamics (internal, relational, emotional) are often drawn to my practice. This includes high-achieving professionals, creatives, and those navigating anxiety, burnout, trauma, relationship and attachment issues, identity or self-worth difficulties, and major life transitions. I offer a thoughtful, relational space to explore both present difficulties and the deeper emotional and unconscious patterns beneath them, helping you move towards greater clarity, resilience and lasting change.
01480 273743 View 01480 273743
Photo of Dr Mia Foxhall, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Mia Foxhall
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Bristol BS2
I believe therapy is about helping break free from stuck patterns using compassion and acceptance.
Feeling low, stressed, worried or stuck? Experiencing lack of confidence? Facing a new, scary life change? Coming to terms with trauma? I have worked with a range of people who have experienced a number of mental health challenges and concerns, and I specialise in self-esteem, anxiety and adjustment to major life transitions (particularly health concerns).
I believe therapy is about helping break free from stuck patterns using compassion and acceptance.
Feeling low, stressed, worried or stuck? Experiencing lack of confidence? Facing a new, scary life change? Coming to terms with trauma? I have worked with a range of people who have experienced a number of mental health challenges and concerns, and I specialise in self-esteem, anxiety and adjustment to major life transitions (particularly health concerns).
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Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counsellors
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?
The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?
A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.