Counselling in Ballymena

Photo of Lynn Kyle, MBACP, Counsellor
Lynn Kyle
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballymena BT42
I am one half of Different Therapy, where we celebrate & embrace difference in our clients. My passion for this work continues to grow as I witness the positive impact it has on the lives of others. Life can bring unresolved issues to the surface, often ones we've tucked away over time. Together, we'll explore whatever has led you to seek support. Whether you're an individual or a couple, I believe you already possess the strength within to create meaningful change. My goal is to help you better understand yourself & your choices, reach your personal or relationship goals, enhance communication, & navigate conflict with greater ease
I am one half of Different Therapy, where we celebrate & embrace difference in our clients. My passion for this work continues to grow as I witness the positive impact it has on the lives of others. Life can bring unresolved issues to the surface, often ones we've tucked away over time. Together, we'll explore whatever has led you to seek support. Whether you're an individual or a couple, I believe you already possess the strength within to create meaningful change. My goal is to help you better understand yourself & your choices, reach your personal or relationship goals, enhance communication, & navigate conflict with greater ease
028 9694 3316 View 028 9694 3316
Photo of Claire Purkess, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire Purkess
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
Welcome to my counselling practice. This is your time to explore your needs in a safe confidential space We will work together and regularly review the process being open and honest so you get the most out of your sessions . I offer face to face therapy, Telephone and online therapy. You decide what suits you and your needs . I am a Integrative counsellor and i help with short and long-term issues, some of the issues I have worked with include anxiety, depression, trauma (eg sexual abuse Any traumatic event ), relationships difficulties, addictions, bereavement and low self-esteem.
Welcome to my counselling practice. This is your time to explore your needs in a safe confidential space We will work together and regularly review the process being open and honest so you get the most out of your sessions . I offer face to face therapy, Telephone and online therapy. You decide what suits you and your needs . I am a Integrative counsellor and i help with short and long-term issues, some of the issues I have worked with include anxiety, depression, trauma (eg sexual abuse Any traumatic event ), relationships difficulties, addictions, bereavement and low self-esteem.
01245 951121 View 01245 951121
Photo of Ric Wilton - Heart Thoughts - Adults, Teens and Children 7+, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Heart Thoughts - Adults, Teens and Children 7+
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
Ric Wilton MSc: I compassionately support adults, teenagers, and children (7+) who have faced challenging experiences, including bullying, rejection, abandonment, ridicule, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, cruelty, or neglect. I also work with those who may not see their experiences as 'big traumas' but still feel the weight of unresolved pain from childhood or later in life. Such difficulties can heighten anxiety, damage self-worth (embedded shame), leading to withdrawal, isolation, and deeply internalised negative beliefs such as feeling 'unsafe, unwanted and unlovable'. I help clients reclaim safety, self-worth, and freedom.
Ric Wilton MSc: I compassionately support adults, teenagers, and children (7+) who have faced challenging experiences, including bullying, rejection, abandonment, ridicule, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, cruelty, or neglect. I also work with those who may not see their experiences as 'big traumas' but still feel the weight of unresolved pain from childhood or later in life. Such difficulties can heighten anxiety, damage self-worth (embedded shame), leading to withdrawal, isolation, and deeply internalised negative beliefs such as feeling 'unsafe, unwanted and unlovable'. I help clients reclaim safety, self-worth, and freedom.
07723 190524 View 07723 190524
Photo of Phyllis McPeake, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Phyllis McPeake
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballymena BT43
I appreciate you might be feeling anxious as you reach out for help and I assure you this is perfectly natural, especially if this is your first time seeking counselling.
I appreciate you might be feeling anxious as you reach out for help and I assure you this is perfectly natural, especially if this is your first time seeking counselling.
07480 534551 View 07480 534551
Inner Calm Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT44
Are you finding life difficult – unable to get out of bed, too anxious or frightened to go out and experience life? Are you feeling sad and lonely? Have you lost your partner, friend or beloved pet? Or maybe you are dealing with abuse or trauma and need someone to understand and help you work through these problems. I am here to help you believe in yourself, feel understood, listened to, and accepted in a safe, supportive and confidential space. My experience includes depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, trauma, abuse, bullying, stress and the general struggles of life.
Are you finding life difficult – unable to get out of bed, too anxious or frightened to go out and experience life? Are you feeling sad and lonely? Have you lost your partner, friend or beloved pet? Or maybe you are dealing with abuse or trauma and need someone to understand and help you work through these problems. I am here to help you believe in yourself, feel understood, listened to, and accepted in a safe, supportive and confidential space. My experience includes depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, trauma, abuse, bullying, stress and the general struggles of life.
028 9057 1788 View 028 9057 1788
Photo of Jennifer Christie - Jen Christie Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jen Christie Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballymena BT42
Relationships, grief, regret, fears, sadness, hurt...these experiences are familiar to us all but sometimes, when we're in the middle of the mess, we just need to be seen, to be heard, to be acknowledged, understood and accepted. Having a safe space to talk, think and feel our way through it all can often bring the peace, clarity, rest and encouragement to do the next little part of our journey. Finding the right counsellor can be tricky and it is a brave thing to seek help...well done for taking that first step.
Relationships, grief, regret, fears, sadness, hurt...these experiences are familiar to us all but sometimes, when we're in the middle of the mess, we just need to be seen, to be heard, to be acknowledged, understood and accepted. Having a safe space to talk, think and feel our way through it all can often bring the peace, clarity, rest and encouragement to do the next little part of our journey. Finding the right counsellor can be tricky and it is a brave thing to seek help...well done for taking that first step.
028 9694 3240 View 028 9694 3240
Photo of Brian Doherty, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Brian Doherty
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT44
Welcome to Inner Peace Counselling where I offer you a safe place to be yourself. Imagine a space where you can speak the unspeakable without fear of reproach or judgement; a place where you are understood. So often in everyday life we are inhibited from being our true selves by our fear of being judged and the pressures of the expectations of others. Let Innerpeace counselling be your sanctuary where you can at last express what you truly feel. It is my privilege to listen and hear how life is for you at this moment and to accompany you on your healing journey. To be understood is powerful.
Welcome to Inner Peace Counselling where I offer you a safe place to be yourself. Imagine a space where you can speak the unspeakable without fear of reproach or judgement; a place where you are understood. So often in everyday life we are inhibited from being our true selves by our fear of being judged and the pressures of the expectations of others. Let Innerpeace counselling be your sanctuary where you can at last express what you truly feel. It is my privilege to listen and hear how life is for you at this moment and to accompany you on your healing journey. To be understood is powerful.
028 9694 3598 View 028 9694 3598
Photo of Annika McVeigh, MSc
Annika McVeigh
MSc
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
Families can be the biggest source of love, intimacy and support;yet at times we struggle to communicate in healthy ways with the ones we love the most. There is no lonelier place than being in a parent, child, sibling or spouse role and feeling completely disconnected and isolated from those around you. Systemic Family work explores emotional triggers, dysfunctional patterns and unhelpful coping strategies with an aim of bringing understanding to each family member. I will endeavour to build trust, and help to develop empathy between family members. I can work one to one, or with the family group together to improve communication.
Families can be the biggest source of love, intimacy and support;yet at times we struggle to communicate in healthy ways with the ones we love the most. There is no lonelier place than being in a parent, child, sibling or spouse role and feeling completely disconnected and isolated from those around you. Systemic Family work explores emotional triggers, dysfunctional patterns and unhelpful coping strategies with an aim of bringing understanding to each family member. I will endeavour to build trust, and help to develop empathy between family members. I can work one to one, or with the family group together to improve communication.
028 9694 3675 View 028 9694 3675
Photo of Catrina Bell, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Catrina Bell
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
Check out www.oaktreetherapiesni.com for more information
Check out www.oaktreetherapiesni.com for more information
07723 414169 View 07723 414169
Photo of Lynsay Ross, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lynsay Ross
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT43
I am an integrative counsellor offering one to one therapy in the Ballymena area. I use a number of therapeutic approaches including person centred, Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I will provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to talk freely. Taking the first step into therapy can be a nervous experience, however I will be there with you throughout this process. Having someone who can see the world through your eyes and listens with empathy and acceptance can help us to explore and navigate our thoughts and issues we are experiencing.
I am an integrative counsellor offering one to one therapy in the Ballymena area. I use a number of therapeutic approaches including person centred, Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I will provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to talk freely. Taking the first step into therapy can be a nervous experience, however I will be there with you throughout this process. Having someone who can see the world through your eyes and listens with empathy and acceptance can help us to explore and navigate our thoughts and issues we are experiencing.
028 9124 4004 View 028 9124 4004
Photo of Richard Wilton - Progeny - Therapy for Teens & Young Adults, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Progeny - Therapy for Teens & Young Adults
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
Progeny is a charity supporting young people (13-25) who have walked through difficult experiences. This includes healing from the impact of wounding such as bullying, rejection, abandonment, ridicule, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, as well as cruelty, terror and neglect, whether encountered in early childhood or as a teen/young adult. Such difficult experiences often increase anxiety and damage self-worth (shame) leading to panic, withdrawal/isolation and corrupted internalised beliefs. Beliefs that whisper, 'I am unseen, unsafe, unworthy, and unlovable'. We help young people to feel safe again and to restore their worth.
Progeny is a charity supporting young people (13-25) who have walked through difficult experiences. This includes healing from the impact of wounding such as bullying, rejection, abandonment, ridicule, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, as well as cruelty, terror and neglect, whether encountered in early childhood or as a teen/young adult. Such difficult experiences often increase anxiety and damage self-worth (shame) leading to panic, withdrawal/isolation and corrupted internalised beliefs. Beliefs that whisper, 'I am unseen, unsafe, unworthy, and unlovable'. We help young people to feel safe again and to restore their worth.
028 9694 3642 View 028 9694 3642
Photo of Sara Louise Gordon - Sara Gordon Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Sara Gordon Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT44
Counselling is a commitment, there is no getting around the fact it will require you to invest financially, emotionally and of course with your time. I am a professional, qualified, integrative counsellor providing a counselling service in Glarryford, Ballymena. I have a purpose built private facility, which ensures client confidentiality and discretion from parking to appointment making your confidentiality is assured. I follow all the current GPRD recommendations and beyond making sure you feel secure and safe when you attend me for your sessions.
Counselling is a commitment, there is no getting around the fact it will require you to invest financially, emotionally and of course with your time. I am a professional, qualified, integrative counsellor providing a counselling service in Glarryford, Ballymena. I have a purpose built private facility, which ensures client confidentiality and discretion from parking to appointment making your confidentiality is assured. I follow all the current GPRD recommendations and beyond making sure you feel secure and safe when you attend me for your sessions.
07481 343976 View 07481 343976
Photo of Trudi Power, MBACP, Counsellor
Trudi Power
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
I am a qualified counsellor who provides a safe, non judgemental, confidential space for clients who may have lost their way in life. I have gained many years experience in working within a crisis intervention and mental health hub. I have a particular interest in mental health pre/ post pregnancy and menopause, exploring the negative impact this can cause during these stages of life.
I am a qualified counsellor who provides a safe, non judgemental, confidential space for clients who may have lost their way in life. I have gained many years experience in working within a crisis intervention and mental health hub. I have a particular interest in mental health pre/ post pregnancy and menopause, exploring the negative impact this can cause during these stages of life.
028 9694 3892 View 028 9694 3892
Photo of Sarah McClenaghan, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sarah McClenaghan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT43
I am passionate about creating a safe and non judgemental and confidential space in which you feel comfortable to explore the issues and concerns you are facing at present. Everyone is the expert of their own life and it’s my job to help you to make the changes that are important to you. I aim to provide you with a genuine and real experience, understanding and walking alongside you in your journey. I believe in a compassionate collaborative approach between you and myself, to support your right to happiness, healthy relationships and healing your past.
I am passionate about creating a safe and non judgemental and confidential space in which you feel comfortable to explore the issues and concerns you are facing at present. Everyone is the expert of their own life and it’s my job to help you to make the changes that are important to you. I aim to provide you with a genuine and real experience, understanding and walking alongside you in your journey. I believe in a compassionate collaborative approach between you and myself, to support your right to happiness, healthy relationships and healing your past.
028 9694 3959 View 028 9694 3959
Photo of Eileen Sarah Russell - WayMaker Child Therapy, PTUK, Psychotherapist
WayMaker Child Therapy
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT43
As a professional play therapist I have a huge heart to help children and families hold hard things and to help parents understand the WHY behind their child's behaviour. I work with children from three - sixteen years old through the healing power of play going after root causes so children can be restored to the child they deserve to be. As founder of WayMaker Child Therapy CIC we are a not for profit organisation based in Ballymena and Ballymoney with a team of professional play therapists. I have worked with children and families since 2005 and love restoring hope and happiness into homes.
As a professional play therapist I have a huge heart to help children and families hold hard things and to help parents understand the WHY behind their child's behaviour. I work with children from three - sixteen years old through the healing power of play going after root causes so children can be restored to the child they deserve to be. As founder of WayMaker Child Therapy CIC we are a not for profit organisation based in Ballymena and Ballymoney with a team of professional play therapists. I have worked with children and families since 2005 and love restoring hope and happiness into homes.
028 9694 3101 View 028 9694 3101
Photo of Laura Patterson, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Laura Patterson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
I provide a safe and confidential space for both individuals and those with relationship difficulties to work through what is troubling you. Therapy can be daunting and many struggle to make that initial consultation; you are not alone. I will walk alongside you every step of the way on your therapeutic journey; providing you with individually tailored tools and techniques to work through your difficulties. Often in life it is our relationships, which cause us the most angst, our stress is generally always in relation to someone else and our self talk if often heavily laden with 'shoulds' resulting in feelings of guilt.
I provide a safe and confidential space for both individuals and those with relationship difficulties to work through what is troubling you. Therapy can be daunting and many struggle to make that initial consultation; you are not alone. I will walk alongside you every step of the way on your therapeutic journey; providing you with individually tailored tools and techniques to work through your difficulties. Often in life it is our relationships, which cause us the most angst, our stress is generally always in relation to someone else and our self talk if often heavily laden with 'shoulds' resulting in feelings of guilt.
07723 475973 View 07723 475973
Photo of Clare Power, MBACP, Counsellor
Clare Power
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT44
Hi my name is Clare Power. Firstly I would like to thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I’m a qualified counsellor and work as a integrative counsellor methods i use is psychodynamic and CBT, together we will work with whichever method suits your needs. I’m a registered member of the BACP and work in accordance to its ethical framework.
Hi my name is Clare Power. Firstly I would like to thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I’m a qualified counsellor and work as a integrative counsellor methods i use is psychodynamic and CBT, together we will work with whichever method suits your needs. I’m a registered member of the BACP and work in accordance to its ethical framework.
07480 777028 View 07480 777028
Photo of Judith C George, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Judith C George
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Are you feeling like life is throwing everything at you all at once and you need to talk with someone to help you through it? I offer you the time and space to reflect on the things that cause you distress so that you can move forward. I can help you to explore the causes of stress and anxiety, and challenge those negative thoughts that cause you to doubt yourself, and your ability to complete tasks and set and achieve goals. I can support you through career changes, life changes, and bullying in the workplace. Together we can explore your loss of a relationship, friendship or loved one.
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Are you feeling like life is throwing everything at you all at once and you need to talk with someone to help you through it? I offer you the time and space to reflect on the things that cause you distress so that you can move forward. I can help you to explore the causes of stress and anxiety, and challenge those negative thoughts that cause you to doubt yourself, and your ability to complete tasks and set and achieve goals. I can support you through career changes, life changes, and bullying in the workplace. Together we can explore your loss of a relationship, friendship or loved one.
028 9694 3654 View 028 9694 3654
Photo of Amanda Gray - Amanda Gray Counselling NI, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Amanda Gray Counselling NI
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballymena BT42
Throughout our lives we all have difficulties and stressors that present themselves for various reasons. Loss, relationship difficulties and unexpected events that keep us awake at night and impact our daily lives, exposing us to illnesses such as depression and anxiety. The affects of these illnesses can never be underestimated as many suffer greatly from a loss of control over their own lives, which stops us living satisfying and fulfilling lives. Please know you are not on your own!
Throughout our lives we all have difficulties and stressors that present themselves for various reasons. Loss, relationship difficulties and unexpected events that keep us awake at night and impact our daily lives, exposing us to illnesses such as depression and anxiety. The affects of these illnesses can never be underestimated as many suffer greatly from a loss of control over their own lives, which stops us living satisfying and fulfilling lives. Please know you are not on your own!
028 9163 8445 View 028 9163 8445
Photo of Susan McMullan, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Susan McMullan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42
I work extensively with PTSD/Complex PTSD and Trauma in a purpose built therapeutic setting. I have 10+ years experience working as a counsellor/psychotherapist supporting clients with suicide ideation, self harm, bereavement, anxiety, depression, OCD, stress, interpersonal relationship issues, anger management, domestic abuse, childhood sexual abuse, transgender, and loss. It is very common to experience doubt and minimise what you are experiencing. “There are people worse off”, “I don't deserve support”, “Il just keep myself busy and things will get better”, if this is the case then a reflective conversation can help,
I work extensively with PTSD/Complex PTSD and Trauma in a purpose built therapeutic setting. I have 10+ years experience working as a counsellor/psychotherapist supporting clients with suicide ideation, self harm, bereavement, anxiety, depression, OCD, stress, interpersonal relationship issues, anger management, domestic abuse, childhood sexual abuse, transgender, and loss. It is very common to experience doubt and minimise what you are experiencing. “There are people worse off”, “I don't deserve support”, “Il just keep myself busy and things will get better”, if this is the case then a reflective conversation can help,
028 9057 1901 View 028 9057 1901
1

See more therapy options for Ballymena

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Ballymena

40+

Average cost per session

£47

Counsellors in Ballymena who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
85% Stress
83% Self Esteem
78% Bereavement
72% Relationship Issues
65% Suicidal Ideation

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% Aviva
40% Other
20% Any/Out-of-network Insurance

How Counsellors in Ballymena see their clients

96% In Person and Online
4% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Ballymena?

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.