Counselling in Ayrshire

View cities in Ayrshire
Photo of Diane Wardman, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Diane Wardman
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
Hello, I am Diane Wardman, a Qualified BACP Registered Psychotherapist working exclusively online with private clients throughout the UK. No matter who you are or what you are going through start your counselling journey today. Asking for help with your mental health can be hard but you are not alone. I offer short and long-term therapy but you decide on the frequency to accommodate your lifestyle. You can directly book a FREE 20-minute Introduction Session or a PAID 50-minute Counselling Session through my website:- www.shoresidetherapy.com
Hello, I am Diane Wardman, a Qualified BACP Registered Psychotherapist working exclusively online with private clients throughout the UK. No matter who you are or what you are going through start your counselling journey today. Asking for help with your mental health can be hard but you are not alone. I offer short and long-term therapy but you decide on the frequency to accommodate your lifestyle. You can directly book a FREE 20-minute Introduction Session or a PAID 50-minute Counselling Session through my website:- www.shoresidetherapy.com
01475 603626 View 01475 603626
Photo of Elaine McQueen, Counsellor, MBACP
Elaine McQueen
Counsellor, MBACP
Troon KA10
Everybody struggles sometimes and talking about whatever may be troubling us helps us to explore our inner feelings. However, considering counselling can feel a bit daunting. Often, we are so used to putting others before ourselves that it can almost feel selfish to take care of ourselves so we just try to 'get on with it'. It can be difficult to take that first step but I can provide a safe space where I will work compassionately with you to help explore whatever may be troubling you. It can be healing to speak to someone outside of your own circle who can be non judgemental and empathic.
Everybody struggles sometimes and talking about whatever may be troubling us helps us to explore our inner feelings. However, considering counselling can feel a bit daunting. Often, we are so used to putting others before ourselves that it can almost feel selfish to take care of ourselves so we just try to 'get on with it'. It can be difficult to take that first step but I can provide a safe space where I will work compassionately with you to help explore whatever may be troubling you. It can be healing to speak to someone outside of your own circle who can be non judgemental and empathic.
01294 445329 View 01294 445329
Photo of Victoria Pollard, Counsellor, BACP
Victoria Pollard
Counsellor, BACP
Hello, I'm Victoria. Whatever is troubling you, I am here to listen. My aim is to support you in talking through your concerns and emotions so that you can gain a better sense of self awareness and acceptance, leading to increased empowerment and satisfaction with your life. You'll hear counsellors mention 'a safe space' - that's really about the relationship that we build together, and how it differs from talking to a friend or family member who may have their own feelings and judgements around the issues that are concerning you.
Hello, I'm Victoria. Whatever is troubling you, I am here to listen. My aim is to support you in talking through your concerns and emotions so that you can gain a better sense of self awareness and acceptance, leading to increased empowerment and satisfaction with your life. You'll hear counsellors mention 'a safe space' - that's really about the relationship that we build together, and how it differs from talking to a friend or family member who may have their own feelings and judgements around the issues that are concerning you.
View
Photo of Vicky Gordon, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Vicky Gordon
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
My name is Vicky and I am a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. (BABCP) I am available to help you to understand and work through your difficulties. CBT is an evidence based practice and effective in treating problems such as depression, low confidence, panic, stress, obsessional problems, phobias, PTSD, health anxieties and excessive worry. My aim is to help you to understand your problems better and to assist you to learn and practice using proven techniques which can reduce distress so that you can lead a life with a greater sense of enjoyment and fulfilment.
My name is Vicky and I am a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. (BABCP) I am available to help you to understand and work through your difficulties. CBT is an evidence based practice and effective in treating problems such as depression, low confidence, panic, stress, obsessional problems, phobias, PTSD, health anxieties and excessive worry. My aim is to help you to understand your problems better and to assist you to learn and practice using proven techniques which can reduce distress so that you can lead a life with a greater sense of enjoyment and fulfilment.
01563 597200 View 01563 597200
Photo of Heather Shannon, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Heather Shannon
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Irvine KA12
I am an accredited psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience of working within mental health services in a variety of settings with adults and children. I carry out psychological therapy for a wide range of conditions.
I am an accredited psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience of working within mental health services in a variety of settings with adults and children. I carry out psychological therapy for a wide range of conditions.
01294 444336 View 01294 444336
Photo of Andrew Paine, Counsellor, MBACP
Andrew Paine
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Troon KA10
Perhaps you're feeling a little stuck or unsure about things at the moment. Perhaps life is a bit overwhelming. There may be a sense that something needs to be addressed but you can't quite articulate it. Perhaps you've considered therapy in the past; you're not sure what it's like or if it's really for you, but maybe you're feeling curious enough to find out? I consider therapy to be a gift: something we can give ourselves: a space where you can talk about the things which are important to you in order to understand your situation and facilitate positive change.
Perhaps you're feeling a little stuck or unsure about things at the moment. Perhaps life is a bit overwhelming. There may be a sense that something needs to be addressed but you can't quite articulate it. Perhaps you've considered therapy in the past; you're not sure what it's like or if it's really for you, but maybe you're feeling curious enough to find out? I consider therapy to be a gift: something we can give ourselves: a space where you can talk about the things which are important to you in order to understand your situation and facilitate positive change.
01563 591723 View 01563 591723
Photo of Gram Davies, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Gram Davies
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Ayr KA7
I’m a higher accredited professional based in Ayrshire. I have worked with individual adults from many backgrounds since 2020. I offer a sincere, therapeutic opportunity to discuss whatever is troubling you. Therapy allows us a private conversation, away from daily expectations and assumptions. This will feel quite different to other styles that use worksheets or set protocols. The steady, regular setting helps you be gradually become inquisitive about your inner life and your interactions with others. People often come to therapy when their usual ways of coping aren’t working.
I’m a higher accredited professional based in Ayrshire. I have worked with individual adults from many backgrounds since 2020. I offer a sincere, therapeutic opportunity to discuss whatever is troubling you. Therapy allows us a private conversation, away from daily expectations and assumptions. This will feel quite different to other styles that use worksheets or set protocols. The steady, regular setting helps you be gradually become inquisitive about your inner life and your interactions with others. People often come to therapy when their usual ways of coping aren’t working.
01794 337336 View 01794 337336
Photo of Paul Burns, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Burns
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
I am a qualified Person Centred counsellor based in Kilmarnock who offers a safe, confidential and non judgmental environment that will allow us to work alongside each other in navigating any issues that you may be dealing with. I offer empathy as a way of connecting as life’s struggles are unique to everyone. As we place the pieces down we can work on joining them together in the hope of gaining a better understanding of any challenges you are going through. Working with addiction, anxiety , finding yourself and loss grief and bereavement are just a few issues I specialise in with always adhering to the BACP guidelines.
I am a qualified Person Centred counsellor based in Kilmarnock who offers a safe, confidential and non judgmental environment that will allow us to work alongside each other in navigating any issues that you may be dealing with. I offer empathy as a way of connecting as life’s struggles are unique to everyone. As we place the pieces down we can work on joining them together in the hope of gaining a better understanding of any challenges you are going through. Working with addiction, anxiety , finding yourself and loss grief and bereavement are just a few issues I specialise in with always adhering to the BACP guidelines.
01563 593275 View 01563 593275
Photo of Jeni Mackay, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Jeni Mackay
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Largs KA30
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, overwhelm or feeling generally stuck then maybe I can help you. Life can be so difficult at times. Sometimes our usual coping strategies don't seem to be doing the trick and we need some extra support. I know it can be difficult seeking help however, giving ourselves the time to consider our difficulties away from the distractions of life can be enormously useful. Together we can create a plan to empower you to overcome your challenges and work towards positive change.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, overwhelm or feeling generally stuck then maybe I can help you. Life can be so difficult at times. Sometimes our usual coping strategies don't seem to be doing the trick and we need some extra support. I know it can be difficult seeking help however, giving ourselves the time to consider our difficulties away from the distractions of life can be enormously useful. Together we can create a plan to empower you to overcome your challenges and work towards positive change.
01475 601270 View 01475 601270
Photo of Zoe Fridd, Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
Zoe Fridd
Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
Ardrossan KA22
Welcome. I started my training in 2003 and completed a Bsc in Psychology. I gained a Msc in Health Psychology specifically focussing on behaviour change and health related counselling. My PGD was in Counselling Psychology with the British Psychological Society. I predominantly worked in trauma, addiction and mental health. Currently working for a service providing counselling for family conflict, attachment disorder and trauma for both adults and children. Privately I work with clients with a variety of mental health issues, self harm, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression and relationship issues.
Welcome. I started my training in 2003 and completed a Bsc in Psychology. I gained a Msc in Health Psychology specifically focussing on behaviour change and health related counselling. My PGD was in Counselling Psychology with the British Psychological Society. I predominantly worked in trauma, addiction and mental health. Currently working for a service providing counselling for family conflict, attachment disorder and trauma for both adults and children. Privately I work with clients with a variety of mental health issues, self harm, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression and relationship issues.
01294 442411 View 01294 442411
Photo of May Smith - May Smith - Calm Counselling Service , Counsellor, MBACP
I am a qualified counsellor, registered with BACP. My training specialises in supporting children and adolescents, with which I have extensive experience, in particularly in trauma; having provided counselling sessions, in both Primary and Secondary Schools for over ten years. I am empathic and accepting of all. No young person should have to go it alone. Every behaviour is a form of communication, often of an unmet need. When we meet that need, the behaviours can change. Early intervention through counselling support, can help the young person make sense of what is going on in their minds, bodies and lives.
I am a qualified counsellor, registered with BACP. My training specialises in supporting children and adolescents, with which I have extensive experience, in particularly in trauma; having provided counselling sessions, in both Primary and Secondary Schools for over ten years. I am empathic and accepting of all. No young person should have to go it alone. Every behaviour is a form of communication, often of an unmet need. When we meet that need, the behaviours can change. Early intervention through counselling support, can help the young person make sense of what is going on in their minds, bodies and lives.
01294 445315 View 01294 445315
Photo of Annie Kerr - Harmony Counselling services, Counsellor, MBACP
Harmony Counselling services
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Harmony counselling services is a UK based ONLINE therapy service! My name is Annie and i am a BACP registered integrative counsellor and mental health practitioner. Navigating life is challenging for all of us. Navigating life with unhealed trauma, unresolved grief, anxiety and panic, chronic pain can be debilitating. Working together, you and i will explore issues that feel demanding, overwhelming and exhausting.
Harmony counselling services is a UK based ONLINE therapy service! My name is Annie and i am a BACP registered integrative counsellor and mental health practitioner. Navigating life is challenging for all of us. Navigating life with unhealed trauma, unresolved grief, anxiety and panic, chronic pain can be debilitating. Working together, you and i will explore issues that feel demanding, overwhelming and exhausting.
View
Photo of Gemma Holmes, Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Gemma Holmes
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Ayr KA7
HCPC Registered & Chartered Psychologist with British Psychological Society (BPS). Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and a qualified Eye Movement Desensitising and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist. I offer specialist ADHD & Autism (ASD) assessment, psychological therapy and consultancy from my practices in Ayr, Glasgow and Edinburgh. I have over 20 years experience of working in mental health with a wide range of client groups and I am trained across several therapeutic modalities.
HCPC Registered & Chartered Psychologist with British Psychological Society (BPS). Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and a qualified Eye Movement Desensitising and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist. I offer specialist ADHD & Autism (ASD) assessment, psychological therapy and consultancy from my practices in Ayr, Glasgow and Edinburgh. I have over 20 years experience of working in mental health with a wide range of client groups and I am trained across several therapeutic modalities.
01292 433159 View 01292 433159
Photo of Carolanne Reat, Counsellor, MBACP
Carolanne Reat
Counsellor, MBACP
Largs KA30
Looking for a counsellor is already a brave step. My hope for you, is that we can explore whats distressing you, what’s maintaining it and how we can bring about positive change. Anxiety, Low Mood and Relationship struggles amongst others, are all issues we can face at various times in our life. Understanding ourselves better and how to best cope can begin to alleviate the discomfort felt in emotional distressing times. Therapy provides a safe space to explore what's keeping you stuck, what's driving it and how to unlock yourself from thinking and behaviours that no longer serve you.
Looking for a counsellor is already a brave step. My hope for you, is that we can explore whats distressing you, what’s maintaining it and how we can bring about positive change. Anxiety, Low Mood and Relationship struggles amongst others, are all issues we can face at various times in our life. Understanding ourselves better and how to best cope can begin to alleviate the discomfort felt in emotional distressing times. Therapy provides a safe space to explore what's keeping you stuck, what's driving it and how to unlock yourself from thinking and behaviours that no longer serve you.
01475 603651 View 01475 603651
Photo of Edmund Dalziel - Greenan Counselling - Edmund Dalziel, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Do you find it hard to share what’s weighing on you, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit? Perhaps life’s changes have left you uncertain, longing for connection, or struggling to feel at ease. I can offer you a compassionate, thoughtful space where those overwhelming thoughts and feelings can be heard—without judgement. Using Transactional Analysis, I’ll work with you to explore how your past shapes your present and gently update the coping strategies that might be holding you back. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you feel safe to be yourself. My goal is to help you improve your connection with yourself.
Do you find it hard to share what’s weighing on you, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit? Perhaps life’s changes have left you uncertain, longing for connection, or struggling to feel at ease. I can offer you a compassionate, thoughtful space where those overwhelming thoughts and feelings can be heard—without judgement. Using Transactional Analysis, I’ll work with you to explore how your past shapes your present and gently update the coping strategies that might be holding you back. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you feel safe to be yourself. My goal is to help you improve your connection with yourself.
01292 430744 View 01292 430744
Photo of Tracey Bradford - Tracey Bradford - Phoenix Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Sometimes the most challenging step is the first one... Well done for deciding to take it. My name is Tracey and I am a psychotherapist, specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with a special interest in Childhood Trauma and Attachment issues. Here at Phoenix Therapy, we aim to provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable space in order for you to feel able to challenge yourself and become the best version of yourself that you can be.
Sometimes the most challenging step is the first one... Well done for deciding to take it. My name is Tracey and I am a psychotherapist, specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with a special interest in Childhood Trauma and Attachment issues. Here at Phoenix Therapy, we aim to provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable space in order for you to feel able to challenge yourself and become the best version of yourself that you can be.
01290 430575 View 01290 430575
Photo of Lorna Lindsay - In Session Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MBACP
In Session Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Kilbirnie KA25
Hi, My name is Lorna Lindsay and I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I am also a registered member of BACP. And I work in accordance with their ethical framework. I am available for face to face, online or telephone consultations and therapy sessions. It is important to keep your mental health as healthy as your physical health. If you feel you would like someone to talk to about any problems pertaining to your mental health, please get in touch and we can work together to find a solution.
Hi, My name is Lorna Lindsay and I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I am also a registered member of BACP. And I work in accordance with their ethical framework. I am available for face to face, online or telephone consultations and therapy sessions. It is important to keep your mental health as healthy as your physical health. If you feel you would like someone to talk to about any problems pertaining to your mental health, please get in touch and we can work together to find a solution.
01505 801580 View 01505 801580
Photo of Kim McAllister - Kim McAllister Counselling , Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Kim McAllister Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Girvan KA26
Kim McAllister MSc, BSc (Hons), Dip.Couns, MNCPS (Accred), CYPT, MBACP, GMBPsS is a fully accredited psychotherapist offering compassionate, person-centred therapy for children, young people, and adults. Based in rural Scotland, she draws on experience in private practice, schools, and charities. Kim specialises in neurodivergence, anxiety, and life transitions including menopause. Awarded Child Counsellor of the Year, she uses talking and play therapies to create a warm, inclusive space where clients feel heard and supported.
Kim McAllister MSc, BSc (Hons), Dip.Couns, MNCPS (Accred), CYPT, MBACP, GMBPsS is a fully accredited psychotherapist offering compassionate, person-centred therapy for children, young people, and adults. Based in rural Scotland, she draws on experience in private practice, schools, and charities. Kim specialises in neurodivergence, anxiety, and life transitions including menopause. Awarded Child Counsellor of the Year, she uses talking and play therapies to create a warm, inclusive space where clients feel heard and supported.
01253 835140 View 01253 835140
Photo of Ali Anderson, Counsellor, MBACP
Ali Anderson
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
We all need help sometimes. I believe we have the answers; sometimes we need a professional to help us access our own resources. I have been privileged over the years to work with a wide range of issues for couples, individuals and young people. Using an Integrative style incorporating elements of a variety of therapeutic modalities, Person centred, Psychodynamic, CBT and others. Clinical Hypnotherapy in the form of Rapid Transformational Therapy RTT. Clients who cannot access my therapy room or work commitments mean time is limited prefer to work on line. I have had great success in the UK and beyond. Looking forward to meeting you
We all need help sometimes. I believe we have the answers; sometimes we need a professional to help us access our own resources. I have been privileged over the years to work with a wide range of issues for couples, individuals and young people. Using an Integrative style incorporating elements of a variety of therapeutic modalities, Person centred, Psychodynamic, CBT and others. Clinical Hypnotherapy in the form of Rapid Transformational Therapy RTT. Clients who cannot access my therapy room or work commitments mean time is limited prefer to work on line. I have had great success in the UK and beyond. Looking forward to meeting you
07432 511172 View 07432 511172
Photo of Vicky Paterson, Counsellor, BACP
Vicky Paterson
Counsellor, BACP
3 Endorsed
Irvine KA12
At various points in our lives, we all encounter moments of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, directionless, or adrift. When life becomes too much to handle, finding a way forward can seem daunting. You might have resigned yourself to thinking, "This is just how things are now," but the good news is that it doesn't have to be that way, and I'm here to assist you. I am a qualified cognitive behavioural therapist. I provide a confidential and non-judgmental environment where I assist you in addressing and overcoming any challenges, fears, or difficulties that may be causing distress and negatively impacting your overall wellbeing. I'm here
At various points in our lives, we all encounter moments of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, directionless, or adrift. When life becomes too much to handle, finding a way forward can seem daunting. You might have resigned yourself to thinking, "This is just how things are now," but the good news is that it doesn't have to be that way, and I'm here to assist you. I am a qualified cognitive behavioural therapist. I provide a confidential and non-judgmental environment where I assist you in addressing and overcoming any challenges, fears, or difficulties that may be causing distress and negatively impacting your overall wellbeing. I'm here
07947 819647 View 07947 819647

See more therapy options for Ayrshire

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Ayrshire

70+

Average cost per session

£50

Counsellors in Ayrshire who prioritize treating:

87% Anxiety
81% Self Esteem
77% Depression
77% Stress
67% Coping Skills
59% Relationship Issues
58% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

56% Aviva
56% Bupa
48% AXA PPP

How Counsellors in Ayrshire see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Ayrshire?

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.