Counselling in Modbury

Photo of Mark Maunsell-Thomas, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Mark Maunsell-Thomas
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Modbury PL21
It takes courage to become truly and confidently oneself. I combine modern therapeutic practice with a mindfulness based approach, which uses the deep relationship between body and mind to bring back mental, emotional and physical balance. I use a a mixture of counselling and yoga combined as needed, to address imbalances of mind and body. Yoga therapy will help you to: develop insight into what is happening inside you, psychologically and emotionally. cultivate the presence of mind to be able to feel your way into uncomfortable experiences and disarm them, calm the nervous system and enhance autonomy and well-being.
It takes courage to become truly and confidently oneself. I combine modern therapeutic practice with a mindfulness based approach, which uses the deep relationship between body and mind to bring back mental, emotional and physical balance. I use a a mixture of counselling and yoga combined as needed, to address imbalances of mind and body. Yoga therapy will help you to: develop insight into what is happening inside you, psychologically and emotionally. cultivate the presence of mind to be able to feel your way into uncomfortable experiences and disarm them, calm the nervous system and enhance autonomy and well-being.
01548 312061 View 01548 312061
Photo of Julie Best-Clark, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Julie Best-Clark
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Modbury PL21
My aim is to bring together effective approaches incorporating a variety of therapeutic models such as relational therapy, humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment theory, person centred and neuroscience. This will also depend on your individual needs. My experience also covers body psychotherapy and energy work along with solution based therapy and mindfulness. I offer both short and long term therapy and the length of therapy will depend upon the presenting issues and your wishes. Is there a particular problem you would like to talk through and explore? This could be to do with a relationship, work related or a repeating pattern.
My aim is to bring together effective approaches incorporating a variety of therapeutic models such as relational therapy, humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment theory, person centred and neuroscience. This will also depend on your individual needs. My experience also covers body psychotherapy and energy work along with solution based therapy and mindfulness. I offer both short and long term therapy and the length of therapy will depend upon the presenting issues and your wishes. Is there a particular problem you would like to talk through and explore? This could be to do with a relationship, work related or a repeating pattern.
01548 312025 View 01548 312025
Photo of Hannah Claire Hipwell, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Hannah Claire Hipwell
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Modbury PL21
Are you struggling to cope with day to day life and finding it difficult to move forwards and find happiness? Perhaps you have recently had a relationship breakdown or lost a loved one and are finding the loss unbearable. Alternatively you might be experiencing signs of Anxiety, Depression or Stress which are preventing you from enjoying life and finding purpose. These are all difficult experiences to face on your own and you deserve to find happiness and a better quality of life.
Are you struggling to cope with day to day life and finding it difficult to move forwards and find happiness? Perhaps you have recently had a relationship breakdown or lost a loved one and are finding the loss unbearable. Alternatively you might be experiencing signs of Anxiety, Depression or Stress which are preventing you from enjoying life and finding purpose. These are all difficult experiences to face on your own and you deserve to find happiness and a better quality of life.
01803 220927 View 01803 220927
Photo of Wendy Suzanne Jamieson, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Wendy Suzanne Jamieson
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Modbury PL21
Hi, I'm Wendy. I'm an experienced counsellor based near Ivybridge, Devon, my Practice has been established since 2003. My training is integrative, and my style of working solution-focused.
Hi, I'm Wendy. I'm an experienced counsellor based near Ivybridge, Devon, my Practice has been established since 2003. My training is integrative, and my style of working solution-focused.
01548 800979 View 01548 800979

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Louise Jones Traumatologist
Louise Jones Traumatologist
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Online only. I specialise in helping people who have experienced, trauma or abuse, work through solutions to enable them to return to the life they once had. Often this will be finding themselves for the first time. Trauma and PTSD can affect anyone that has experienced a potentially life-threatening event, or a serious injury, or witnessed one or heard about an event that has happened to a close friend or family member. Your symptoms may include some or all but not be limited to, upsetting thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, avoiding people, places or situations, irritability, anxiety, jumpy, panic attacks and more.
Online only. I specialise in helping people who have experienced, trauma or abuse, work through solutions to enable them to return to the life they once had. Often this will be finding themselves for the first time. Trauma and PTSD can affect anyone that has experienced a potentially life-threatening event, or a serious injury, or witnessed one or heard about an event that has happened to a close friend or family member. Your symptoms may include some or all but not be limited to, upsetting thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, avoiding people, places or situations, irritability, anxiety, jumpy, panic attacks and more.
01752 982164 View 01752 982164
Photo of Nichola Jean, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nichola Jean
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
I offer therapy (individual) and masterclasses (group/individual) - online, tel or in person. As an Accredited Counsellor, qualified Coach & Hypnotherapist I can offer you a safe, confidential and therapeutic space. My blend of counselling, coaching. psychological education and guided self imagery with relaxation can help you work on the issues that are holding you back. I can help you explore, develop and challenge yourself in as much emotional depth as feels right for you. Learn from your past - access your unconscious mind and allow yourself to move forward and transform your life. Believe in yourself - you can do this....
I offer therapy (individual) and masterclasses (group/individual) - online, tel or in person. As an Accredited Counsellor, qualified Coach & Hypnotherapist I can offer you a safe, confidential and therapeutic space. My blend of counselling, coaching. psychological education and guided self imagery with relaxation can help you work on the issues that are holding you back. I can help you explore, develop and challenge yourself in as much emotional depth as feels right for you. Learn from your past - access your unconscious mind and allow yourself to move forward and transform your life. Believe in yourself - you can do this....
07572 989543 View 07572 989543
Photo of Lisa Lillicrap, BACP, Counsellor
Lisa Lillicrap
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ivybridge PL21
People have come to see me due to specific issues or challenges in their lives. Others want to work on other areas or growth and many feel unfulfilled and not sure what the future holds. Sometimes experiences from the past or present bring worries for the future creating repetitive, unhelpful thoughts. I believe you have the ability to understand, make changes and control how you choose to live your life. Whatever is brought into a session, we will work together at a pace that you want to understand what is going on.
People have come to see me due to specific issues or challenges in their lives. Others want to work on other areas or growth and many feel unfulfilled and not sure what the future holds. Sometimes experiences from the past or present bring worries for the future creating repetitive, unhelpful thoughts. I believe you have the ability to understand, make changes and control how you choose to live your life. Whatever is brought into a session, we will work together at a pace that you want to understand what is going on.
01548 808711 View 01548 808711
Photo of Dave Castle, MBACP, Counsellor
Dave Castle
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
Hi.. I am an experienced Counsellor specialising in Relationship issues for Individuals and Couples. I'm caring and don't mind swearing, which is handy, because people often do... I work from a lovely private room in Totnes, or Online drawing on different techniques and experience into a holistic, caring approach. Talking helps to gain understanding, perpective and insight into issues, and for clients who wish to work on the more sub-conscious patterns and historical issues which are usually at the root of our stories, I provide a range of effective techniques that help to move things forward effectively
Hi.. I am an experienced Counsellor specialising in Relationship issues for Individuals and Couples. I'm caring and don't mind swearing, which is handy, because people often do... I work from a lovely private room in Totnes, or Online drawing on different techniques and experience into a holistic, caring approach. Talking helps to gain understanding, perpective and insight into issues, and for clients who wish to work on the more sub-conscious patterns and historical issues which are usually at the root of our stories, I provide a range of effective techniques that help to move things forward effectively
01803 308959 View 01803 308959
Photo of Kim Sturgeon, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Kim Sturgeon
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
I specialise in working with women who want to unpack and understand themselves and their experiences. From a non-pathologising and trauma-informed perspective, I work together with clients to process difficult experiences and find new ways of being that facilitate a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. I'm a fully qualified (level 6) Integrative Counsellor with additional training in sexual trauma and supporting survivors of sexual abuse with sex and intimacy.
I specialise in working with women who want to unpack and understand themselves and their experiences. From a non-pathologising and trauma-informed perspective, I work together with clients to process difficult experiences and find new ways of being that facilitate a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. I'm a fully qualified (level 6) Integrative Counsellor with additional training in sexual trauma and supporting survivors of sexual abuse with sex and intimacy.
01752 987209 View 01752 987209
Photo of Jon Matthew Rowe, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Jon Matthew Rowe
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
Most people experience times in their lives when their feelings and their life as a whole seems totally unmanageable. Those moments are often described as ‘not being able to see the wood for the trees’- times when we feel that no one understands and we do not know which way to turn. Seeing a counsellor can often help you to gain a different perspective on life and see things more clearly. I believe that every person deserves the opportunity to be heard and to be given the chance to work through their problems in a safe and confidential space.
Most people experience times in their lives when their feelings and their life as a whole seems totally unmanageable. Those moments are often described as ‘not being able to see the wood for the trees’- times when we feel that no one understands and we do not know which way to turn. Seeing a counsellor can often help you to gain a different perspective on life and see things more clearly. I believe that every person deserves the opportunity to be heard and to be given the chance to work through their problems in a safe and confidential space.
01752 982796 View 01752 982796
Photo of Amy Sayer - Latitude Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Latitude Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
Most often, I work with clients who need a safe, confidential space to make sense of different types of relational hurt. In the first instance, I make plenty of time to for us to talk about and establish your goals for therapy, so we're both clear how you'd like things to be, how you’d like to feel and what it is you hope gain from the process. From this point, I see our work as a collaborative exploration in moving towards where you want to be, equipping you with the tools you need to find meaning, purpose and a greater sense of peace and ease in the world.
Most often, I work with clients who need a safe, confidential space to make sense of different types of relational hurt. In the first instance, I make plenty of time to for us to talk about and establish your goals for therapy, so we're both clear how you'd like things to be, how you’d like to feel and what it is you hope gain from the process. From this point, I see our work as a collaborative exploration in moving towards where you want to be, equipping you with the tools you need to find meaning, purpose and a greater sense of peace and ease in the world.
01548 800946 View 01548 800946
Photo of Anita Lennox, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Anita Lennox
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
I am dedicated to helping Clients navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. Whether seeking support for specific issues or aiming for deeper self-understanding, I work with clients who struggle with Anxiety and Stress Management - Self-Development and Self Esteem - Confidence - Fears and Phobias -Emotional Issues - Depression - Relationship Problems - P.T.S.D, - Anger Management- Pain Management - Habit Reversal - Specific Counselling for Women - Women and Menopause - Coaching and more.
I am dedicated to helping Clients navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. Whether seeking support for specific issues or aiming for deeper self-understanding, I work with clients who struggle with Anxiety and Stress Management - Self-Development and Self Esteem - Confidence - Fears and Phobias -Emotional Issues - Depression - Relationship Problems - P.T.S.D, - Anger Management- Pain Management - Habit Reversal - Specific Counselling for Women - Women and Menopause - Coaching and more.
01803 222882 View 01803 222882
Photo of Joanna Godding, MBACP, Counsellor
Joanna Godding
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
Hi, I am an Attachment Focused Counsellor, Creative Arts and Play Therapist working with Children, Adolescents and Families. My clinic is located In Plympton PL7 1RF. I have been working with vulnerable Children and Adolescents within private and educational settings for over 15 years. I am registered with the BACP
Hi, I am an Attachment Focused Counsellor, Creative Arts and Play Therapist working with Children, Adolescents and Families. My clinic is located In Plympton PL7 1RF. I have been working with vulnerable Children and Adolescents within private and educational settings for over 15 years. I am registered with the BACP
01752 741078 View 01752 741078
Photo of Nigel Jones, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nigel Jones
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
If you suffer from anxiety then looking for help is pretty tough. If you feel up for a chat, call me on 07918 050934 where we can talk for a while. This way you can decide if you feel we can work together to find the right way forward for you.
If you suffer from anxiety then looking for help is pretty tough. If you feel up for a chat, call me on 07918 050934 where we can talk for a while. This way you can decide if you feel we can work together to find the right way forward for you.
01572 494675 View 01572 494675
Photo of Anna Tissandier - Dr Anna Tissandier, EMDR Therapy, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Anna Tissandier, EMDR Therapy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner offering one to one EMDR therapy to adults. In our time together, we would aim to develop a shared understanding of your life - its significant events and relationships - and to explore the ways these may have led to certain strengths and vulnerabilities. This kind of understanding can itself help people to feel very differently, and to start to make changes in their lives. Further and deeper changes become possible when we work on processing difficult events that may still be exerting an influence, and by developing techniques to deepen self-compassion.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner offering one to one EMDR therapy to adults. In our time together, we would aim to develop a shared understanding of your life - its significant events and relationships - and to explore the ways these may have led to certain strengths and vulnerabilities. This kind of understanding can itself help people to feel very differently, and to start to make changes in their lives. Further and deeper changes become possible when we work on processing difficult events that may still be exerting an influence, and by developing techniques to deepen self-compassion.
01364 700267 View 01364 700267
Photo of Ben Selby - Ben Selby Counselling, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Ben Selby Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
As a person centred therapist, I help clients to make positive life changes across a wide range of areas. Together, we can help you to take control of your life, improve your self confidence and unlock your true potential. I have over 16 years of experience, which has given me the knowledge and tools to guide clients through any situation they may be experiencing. I'm based in the tranquil environment of the Millfields in Stonehouse and offer flexible appointments (including early evening appointments). If you can't come to me, we can even use FaceTime for our appointments!
As a person centred therapist, I help clients to make positive life changes across a wide range of areas. Together, we can help you to take control of your life, improve your self confidence and unlock your true potential. I have over 16 years of experience, which has given me the knowledge and tools to guide clients through any situation they may be experiencing. I'm based in the tranquil environment of the Millfields in Stonehouse and offer flexible appointments (including early evening appointments). If you can't come to me, we can even use FaceTime for our appointments!
01752 987295 View 01752 987295
Photo of Yvonne Beechfield, MBACP, Counsellor
Yvonne Beechfield
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
Life will sometimes take us down paths we havn't asked for, causing us to loose sense of our true self, dulling our energy and bringing uncertainty in how we choose to live. Talking does help. It gives you the chance to bring all your concerns and worries into a safe space where I can help you sort through each of them. With careful exploration we can identify what you might like to change and how to make the change. Life will feel easier and lighter as you start to gain control over how you choose to live it.
Life will sometimes take us down paths we havn't asked for, causing us to loose sense of our true self, dulling our energy and bringing uncertainty in how we choose to live. Talking does help. It gives you the chance to bring all your concerns and worries into a safe space where I can help you sort through each of them. With careful exploration we can identify what you might like to change and how to make the change. Life will feel easier and lighter as you start to gain control over how you choose to live it.
01752 968333 View 01752 968333
Photo of Stuart Toghill - Brainworktherapy Ltd., MBACP, Psychotherapist
Brainworktherapy Ltd.
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
If you are looking for counselling in a compassionate and non-judgemental way, then I might be a good fit for you. As an integrative therapist, I use a range of counselling styles. I am also an advanced BWRT practitioner which is my preferred way to work because, simply, it is the most effective. I have seen many clients to who have had years of therapy, and say that BWRT has finally worked for them. Interested? Get in touch.
If you are looking for counselling in a compassionate and non-judgemental way, then I might be a good fit for you. As an integrative therapist, I use a range of counselling styles. I am also an advanced BWRT practitioner which is my preferred way to work because, simply, it is the most effective. I have seen many clients to who have had years of therapy, and say that BWRT has finally worked for them. Interested? Get in touch.
01752 741116 View 01752 741116
Photo of Dr Marsha Taylor, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Marsha Taylor
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and a Europe Approved EMDR Consultant Practitioner & Supervisor. I have over 20 years NHS experience of assessment and treatment of adult mental health conditions. I am now offering my extensive therapy skills as an independent practitioner in South Devon. I offer science- based treatments that are uniquely tailored to the individual. My passion is addressing psychological problems rooted in trauma and/or exposure to adverse/stressful experiences at any stage in life. From early attachment wounds to more severe Complex PTSD presentations, & adult trauma resulting PTSD & anxiety conditions.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and a Europe Approved EMDR Consultant Practitioner & Supervisor. I have over 20 years NHS experience of assessment and treatment of adult mental health conditions. I am now offering my extensive therapy skills as an independent practitioner in South Devon. I offer science- based treatments that are uniquely tailored to the individual. My passion is addressing psychological problems rooted in trauma and/or exposure to adverse/stressful experiences at any stage in life. From early attachment wounds to more severe Complex PTSD presentations, & adult trauma resulting PTSD & anxiety conditions.
01803 224721 View 01803 224721
Photo of Dr Joanne Porter Consultant Clinical Psychologist Emdr Practitioner, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Joanne Porter Consultant Clinical Psychologist Emdr Practitioner
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ivybridge PL21
Not accepting new clients
I specialise in working with Adults, CPTSD, Autism, PD, DID, Autism Assessments. I offer short term, ad hoc, or long term therapy. Single or multiple event trauma. People come to me with a variety of conditions and we work together at both a practical and therapeutic level. I will tell you if I feel I am not the therapist for you. I have special interests in CPTSD, Autism and Intellectual Disability. I am experienced in working with LGBTQ+ clients. I specialise in EMDR, IFS, and Psychodynamic approaches. I draw upon Systemic, CBT, ACT and SFT. I offer NICE compliant diagnostic Autism assessments.
I specialise in working with Adults, CPTSD, Autism, PD, DID, Autism Assessments. I offer short term, ad hoc, or long term therapy. Single or multiple event trauma. People come to me with a variety of conditions and we work together at both a practical and therapeutic level. I will tell you if I feel I am not the therapist for you. I have special interests in CPTSD, Autism and Intellectual Disability. I am experienced in working with LGBTQ+ clients. I specialise in EMDR, IFS, and Psychodynamic approaches. I draw upon Systemic, CBT, ACT and SFT. I offer NICE compliant diagnostic Autism assessments.
01752 987270 View 01752 987270

See more therapy options for Modbury

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Modbury

< 10

Counsellors in Modbury who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
75% Child
75% Bereavement
75% Spirituality

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% WPA
50% Aviva
50% AXA PPP

How Counsellors in Modbury see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Modbury?

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.