Counselling in Rochford

Photo of Somewhere to Talk , Counsellor in Rochford, England
Somewhere to Talk
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochford SS4
I hope to help you feel as comfortable as possible as I understand how daunting it can be searching for a new counsellor. I offer online, telephone or face to face counselling, depending on what works best for you. We can arrange a free 20 minute telephone consultation to chat about what you are looking for and whether you feel I will be the right support for you going forward.
I hope to help you feel as comfortable as possible as I understand how daunting it can be searching for a new counsellor. I offer online, telephone or face to face counselling, depending on what works best for you. We can arrange a free 20 minute telephone consultation to chat about what you are looking for and whether you feel I will be the right support for you going forward.
01702 967575 View 01702 967575
Photo of Christine Nutt Msc, Psychotherapist in Rochford, England
Christine Nutt Msc
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
If you think you may need counselling or psychotherapy, you are not alone. At times we are all faced with confusing or painful situations, feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety, stress or depression, painful losses, traumatic or unhappy memories, difficult decisions or the need for change. My way of working is relational, conveying warmth, empathy and compassion for my clients, so I will not analyse you, judge you or try to impose my values and beliefs on you but I will offer you my full attention and respect your individuality. In essence, my aim is to encourage you to trust, accept and value yourself, strengthening self-esteem.
If you think you may need counselling or psychotherapy, you are not alone. At times we are all faced with confusing or painful situations, feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety, stress or depression, painful losses, traumatic or unhappy memories, difficult decisions or the need for change. My way of working is relational, conveying warmth, empathy and compassion for my clients, so I will not analyse you, judge you or try to impose my values and beliefs on you but I will offer you my full attention and respect your individuality. In essence, my aim is to encourage you to trust, accept and value yourself, strengthening self-esteem.
01702 418722 View 01702 418722
Photo of Maaike Beech, Psychotherapist in Rochford, England
Maaike Beech
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Are you struggling with the aftermath of trauma? Sleeping difficulties, concentration problems, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of triggers, a numbness or disconnect, the body being on alert, negative thoughts, etc. The good news: There is hope! There is a way to feel better, more grounded, safer and more connected. With 16+ years experience, my team of qualified trauma therapists and I provide counselling and safe trauma therapy for young people and adults. We will always prioritise your safety, so that trauma therapy doesn't become too overwhelming. We also work with loss, grief, identity, depression, anxiety and stress.
Are you struggling with the aftermath of trauma? Sleeping difficulties, concentration problems, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of triggers, a numbness or disconnect, the body being on alert, negative thoughts, etc. The good news: There is hope! There is a way to feel better, more grounded, safer and more connected. With 16+ years experience, my team of qualified trauma therapists and I provide counselling and safe trauma therapy for young people and adults. We will always prioritise your safety, so that trauma therapy doesn't become too overwhelming. We also work with loss, grief, identity, depression, anxiety and stress.
01702 967374 View 01702 967374
Photo of Gosia Grabowska, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Gosia Grabowska
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to live with less stress and have your own motivation and purpose in life? Do you sometimes think that the COVID pandemic changed your outlook on life, and you truly want to start living with more awareness, well-being, and happiness? On top of that, are relationships hard, and do you find yourself in battles with others or yourself? Do you feel that you didn’t say the right thing, or perhaps you said too much, and now you feel guilty, weighed down by shame?
Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to live with less stress and have your own motivation and purpose in life? Do you sometimes think that the COVID pandemic changed your outlook on life, and you truly want to start living with more awareness, well-being, and happiness? On top of that, are relationships hard, and do you find yourself in battles with others or yourself? Do you feel that you didn’t say the right thing, or perhaps you said too much, and now you feel guilty, weighed down by shame?
01702 967243 View 01702 967243
Photo of Kelly Elizabeth Walters, Psychotherapist in Rochford, England
Kelly Elizabeth Walters
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
I am a qualified and experienced integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP working in Rochford, Southend, Essex and online. I am a professionally trained counsellor dealing with many fields including, but not only, addictive and dependent behaviours, perception-altering drugs including cannabis, anxiety-driven behaviour, and relational issues and sexual abuse. I am training in EMDR as of January 2024 and will be able to help offer this service. It's all about you. Counselling focuses on your needs. Using my skills I aim to help you achieve the change you are looking for.
I am a qualified and experienced integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP working in Rochford, Southend, Essex and online. I am a professionally trained counsellor dealing with many fields including, but not only, addictive and dependent behaviours, perception-altering drugs including cannabis, anxiety-driven behaviour, and relational issues and sexual abuse. I am training in EMDR as of January 2024 and will be able to help offer this service. It's all about you. Counselling focuses on your needs. Using my skills I aim to help you achieve the change you are looking for.
01702 967790 View 01702 967790
Photo of Kerry Finn, Psychotherapist in Rochford, England
Kerry Finn
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Therapy should fit in with your life. I'm here to help support you and that means working together on the best approach for your well being and mental health. You don't have to suffer alone. I work with Anxiety, Depression, OCD and many other issues.
Therapy should fit in with your life. I'm here to help support you and that means working together on the best approach for your well being and mental health. You don't have to suffer alone. I work with Anxiety, Depression, OCD and many other issues.
01702 967103 View 01702 967103
Photo of Jackie Morley, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Jackie Morley
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
I have a background in Social Care where I worked with complex family and relationship issues. Through my experience I have come to understand how instrumental caring, supportive relationships are to reducing stress and increasing emotional well-being. It has led to a passion for working as a therapist to help people improve relationships, to feel connected to, heard and valued by spouses, partners, friends and family. Through resolving conflict, repairing hurt, anger and where you are able to let go of resentments it can lead to a healthier sex-life and sexual functioning.
I have a background in Social Care where I worked with complex family and relationship issues. Through my experience I have come to understand how instrumental caring, supportive relationships are to reducing stress and increasing emotional well-being. It has led to a passion for working as a therapist to help people improve relationships, to feel connected to, heard and valued by spouses, partners, friends and family. Through resolving conflict, repairing hurt, anger and where you are able to let go of resentments it can lead to a healthier sex-life and sexual functioning.
07492 360374 View 07492 360374
Photo of Shine Counselling Therapy, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Shine Counselling Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Are you feeling Overwhelmed, Frustrated, Different ? Maybe you struggle to manage you thoughts and emotions ? Do you feel not good enough, a failure, lack self confidence? Maybe you have ADHD, Autism or Dyslexia, or are a parent of a child that does. Maybe you suspect you may be neurodiverse or care for someone who is struggling. I Can Help You. As a late diagnosed Dyslexic person and parent of a dyslexic child i understand these emotions and the challenges this brings in life. This has given me the passion and ability to work alongside people who feel overwhelmed and different for whatever reason.
Are you feeling Overwhelmed, Frustrated, Different ? Maybe you struggle to manage you thoughts and emotions ? Do you feel not good enough, a failure, lack self confidence? Maybe you have ADHD, Autism or Dyslexia, or are a parent of a child that does. Maybe you suspect you may be neurodiverse or care for someone who is struggling. I Can Help You. As a late diagnosed Dyslexic person and parent of a dyslexic child i understand these emotions and the challenges this brings in life. This has given me the passion and ability to work alongside people who feel overwhelmed and different for whatever reason.
01268 437516 View 01268 437516
Photo of Dawn Crockford, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Dawn Crockford
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel unfulfilled, unhappy, unwell (Dr has given the 'all clear') or unsure why you keep reacting in certain ways? Together we can explore these concerns and the counselling journey will help improve your self-awareness as to the reasons for these emotions. Life can be hard and sometimes giving yourself 'time out' and the opportunity in a confidential, non-judgmental space to be open and honest with how you are thinking, feeling and behaving, will hopefully allow you to feel lighter and content with whom you are and have a positive impact on your future.
Do you feel unfulfilled, unhappy, unwell (Dr has given the 'all clear') or unsure why you keep reacting in certain ways? Together we can explore these concerns and the counselling journey will help improve your self-awareness as to the reasons for these emotions. Life can be hard and sometimes giving yourself 'time out' and the opportunity in a confidential, non-judgmental space to be open and honest with how you are thinking, feeling and behaving, will hopefully allow you to feel lighter and content with whom you are and have a positive impact on your future.
07480 486532 View 07480 486532
Photo of Gemma Maria Anderson, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Gemma Maria Anderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
1st Session FREE to decide if I’m the right counsellor for you :) Have you been experiencing anxiety /worry and depression lately or had a recent diagnosis in ADHD? . Are you experiencing low self esteem and feel like you’re unable to manage your emotions in the way you would like?. Are you feeling sad, isolated and alone because of this. Please don't feel like you have to do this alone. There is nothing too small/big or “silly” to bring to therapy. I'm aware that deciding whether Counselling is right for you can be daunting, and I'm sure you have many questions. This is why I offer a first free so that you can come and try first.
1st Session FREE to decide if I’m the right counsellor for you :) Have you been experiencing anxiety /worry and depression lately or had a recent diagnosis in ADHD? . Are you experiencing low self esteem and feel like you’re unable to manage your emotions in the way you would like?. Are you feeling sad, isolated and alone because of this. Please don't feel like you have to do this alone. There is nothing too small/big or “silly” to bring to therapy. I'm aware that deciding whether Counselling is right for you can be daunting, and I'm sure you have many questions. This is why I offer a first free so that you can come and try first.
01702 416232 View 01702 416232
Photo of Carl Adams, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Carl Adams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Life can bring us many difficulties, challenges, issues, stresses and anxieties. It can also bring many over whelming feelings such as pain, anger, sadness, hopelessness, guilt and regret. I am a gentle, emphathic, non judgmental counsellor; I see myself as a down to earth regular person and believe in talking to people on their own level.
Life can bring us many difficulties, challenges, issues, stresses and anxieties. It can also bring many over whelming feelings such as pain, anger, sadness, hopelessness, guilt and regret. I am a gentle, emphathic, non judgmental counsellor; I see myself as a down to earth regular person and believe in talking to people on their own level.
01702 904166 View 01702 904166
Photo of Lesley Patchick Counselling, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Lesley Patchick Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4  (Online Only)
As an experienced BACP Accredited counsellor, with diverse & varied counselling experience, I can offer you a professional, safe, cared-for & confidential environment which will support you in exploring the aspects of your life that are troubling you. People enter therapy for many reasons. Whatever your circumstances or the obstacles you face, having a confidential space where you are not judged, where it is safe for you to be totally 'you', will be key to assisting you in your journey to a life that feels happier & more content. I can provide this for you.
As an experienced BACP Accredited counsellor, with diverse & varied counselling experience, I can offer you a professional, safe, cared-for & confidential environment which will support you in exploring the aspects of your life that are troubling you. People enter therapy for many reasons. Whatever your circumstances or the obstacles you face, having a confidential space where you are not judged, where it is safe for you to be totally 'you', will be key to assisting you in your journey to a life that feels happier & more content. I can provide this for you.
01702 680337 View 01702 680337
Photo of Yvette White, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Yvette White
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochford SS4
Counsellor Yvette White is an Anxiety and Depression Specialist. Online Face to face and Telephone sessions available. Health Anxiety and Stress management. Fully qualified Counsellor, registered with the BACP, EFT practitioner and Life Coach. I can assist you with a range of issues, problems and difficulties that you may be experiencing in your life such as Anxiety, Abuse, Loss, Death Anxiety, Divorce, Depression, Career path, Cancer support, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Pain management, Panic Disorder, PTSD, Rape crisis, Relationship issues, Self harm and Low self esteem.
Counsellor Yvette White is an Anxiety and Depression Specialist. Online Face to face and Telephone sessions available. Health Anxiety and Stress management. Fully qualified Counsellor, registered with the BACP, EFT practitioner and Life Coach. I can assist you with a range of issues, problems and difficulties that you may be experiencing in your life such as Anxiety, Abuse, Loss, Death Anxiety, Divorce, Depression, Career path, Cancer support, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Pain management, Panic Disorder, PTSD, Rape crisis, Relationship issues, Self harm and Low self esteem.
01702 967863 View 01702 967863
Photo of Sharon Horwood Counselling, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Sharon Horwood Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochford SS4
Hi, I’m a therapist helping people recover from burnout, stress & low self esteem. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, or wanting non-judgemental support? Have you or a loved one been through a life changing injury or illness? I had a stroke many years ago that affected my family, business, friends & left me disabled! Through this I know the challenges of being a single parent too. Are you a young person unsure which direction to take your future? In my previous career I loved working with and inspiring young people, whether teenagers, twenties or older, this is still close to my heart. So use me to help you look inwards.
Hi, I’m a therapist helping people recover from burnout, stress & low self esteem. Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, or wanting non-judgemental support? Have you or a loved one been through a life changing injury or illness? I had a stroke many years ago that affected my family, business, friends & left me disabled! Through this I know the challenges of being a single parent too. Are you a young person unsure which direction to take your future? In my previous career I loved working with and inspiring young people, whether teenagers, twenties or older, this is still close to my heart. So use me to help you look inwards.
01702 967443 View 01702 967443
Photo of Sian Elizabeth Hines, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Sian Elizabeth Hines
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
I can help you to reach the potential that you want and deserve to reach by helping you to understand your past, present and future. To help you to work through relationship problems, self esteem issues or letting go of the past. To enable you to see past blocks and obstacles so that you can control, minimise and eliminate any anxieties. To work with the negative emotions that you feel so that you can identify quickly what your emotions are telling you and then challenge them so that they do not control you. To magnify the positives and build on them for complete self confidence.
I can help you to reach the potential that you want and deserve to reach by helping you to understand your past, present and future. To help you to work through relationship problems, self esteem issues or letting go of the past. To enable you to see past blocks and obstacles so that you can control, minimise and eliminate any anxieties. To work with the negative emotions that you feel so that you can identify quickly what your emotions are telling you and then challenge them so that they do not control you. To magnify the positives and build on them for complete self confidence.
01702 967425 View 01702 967425
Photo of Marc Freeman, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Marc Freeman
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
If you are finding life difficult, or struggling to understand or change the way you feel, talking to somebody can really help. Sometimes reaching out is the best thing you can do, and it can really help you put things into perspective and learn new ways of coping and dealing with the difficulties in your life. I have linked an example of how I work in this video: https://youtu.be/g4YMqJdPoj0
If you are finding life difficult, or struggling to understand or change the way you feel, talking to somebody can really help. Sometimes reaching out is the best thing you can do, and it can really help you put things into perspective and learn new ways of coping and dealing with the difficulties in your life. I have linked an example of how I work in this video: https://youtu.be/g4YMqJdPoj0
01702 680152 View 01702 680152
Photo of Paul Vingoe, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Paul Vingoe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
Hi, I'm Paul. If you are here then you may be suffering, struggling or in pain. You may have considered reaching out for help from a therapist for some time or may have taken the plunge but not received the support you wanted or needed. You may have a fear of opening up or trusting. A fear that if the tears come they will never stop. You may have lived with anxious feelings for years or maybe a nagging sensation that your life isn't what you want it to be. If so, then the good news is that it doesn't have to be that way. I believe that your life and your relationships can get better and I'm here to help you make that happen
Hi, I'm Paul. If you are here then you may be suffering, struggling or in pain. You may have considered reaching out for help from a therapist for some time or may have taken the plunge but not received the support you wanted or needed. You may have a fear of opening up or trusting. A fear that if the tears come they will never stop. You may have lived with anxious feelings for years or maybe a nagging sensation that your life isn't what you want it to be. If so, then the good news is that it doesn't have to be that way. I believe that your life and your relationships can get better and I'm here to help you make that happen
01702 967429 View 01702 967429
Photo of Valerie Thompson, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Valerie Thompson
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
I am a couples counsellor / relationship therapist. I focus on helping couples and individuals lead more contented lives. You may feel the spark has gone from your relationship, navigating a new one or not in a relationship at all. No matter what your circumstance, the chances are, if you are reading this, you have concerns about how you’re relating to others. If you're concerned about any of the following issues in your relationship, I may be able to help you: trust and jealousy, intimacy, family relationships, communication, self-esteem, infidelity, understanding each other, depression and anxiety, separation and divorce.
I am a couples counsellor / relationship therapist. I focus on helping couples and individuals lead more contented lives. You may feel the spark has gone from your relationship, navigating a new one or not in a relationship at all. No matter what your circumstance, the chances are, if you are reading this, you have concerns about how you’re relating to others. If you're concerned about any of the following issues in your relationship, I may be able to help you: trust and jealousy, intimacy, family relationships, communication, self-esteem, infidelity, understanding each other, depression and anxiety, separation and divorce.
01702 410098 View 01702 410098
Photo of Gary Mewes, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Gary Mewes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
I am committed to providing a safe non judgemental space for you to discuss any issues that may be affecting you life, relationships and general wellbeing. We are all unique individuals facing different life challenges, which we may find difficult to express in our relationships. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss any issues that you are struggling with. I work from an integrative approach, which means I will endeavour to tailor our sessions to meet your own personal requirements, allowing you to gain the most out of your therapy.
I am committed to providing a safe non judgemental space for you to discuss any issues that may be affecting you life, relationships and general wellbeing. We are all unique individuals facing different life challenges, which we may find difficult to express in our relationships. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss any issues that you are struggling with. I work from an integrative approach, which means I will endeavour to tailor our sessions to meet your own personal requirements, allowing you to gain the most out of your therapy.
01702 967115 View 01702 967115
Photo of Angela McCleave, Counsellor in Rochford, England
Angela McCleave
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Rochford SS4
I am a BACP Accredited therapist with a wealth of life experience, as well as experience with counselling people going through a wide range of emotional life events. You do not have to do this on your own. The first step is the hardest and that is to make the call to reach out for help. I offer sessions via telephone, video, or face-to-face.
I am a BACP Accredited therapist with a wealth of life experience, as well as experience with counselling people going through a wide range of emotional life events. You do not have to do this on your own. The first step is the hardest and that is to make the call to reach out for help. I offer sessions via telephone, video, or face-to-face.
01702 967623 View 01702 967623

See more therapy options for Rochford

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Rochford

30+

Average cost per session

£50

Counsellors in Rochford who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Relationship Issues
87% Depression
84% Self Esteem
77% Stress
74% Bereavement
71% Divorce

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

38% Any/Out-of-network Insurance
25% Bupa
13% Other

How Counsellors in Rochford see their clients

97% In Person and Online
3% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Rochford?

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.