The initial consultation offers you the opportunity to outline the main issue or issues that are causing you problems and how you are feeling. You can also talk about what your expectations are of counselling and what you hope to achieve. Alan will provide an explanation of his style of counselling and how the counselling process works. There will also be an opportunity to discuss other aspects around the counselling contract such as confidentiality, duration of appointments, fees etc. It is also an evaluation of your therapeutic needs. In this regard, please note that you may also require an onward referral to an alternative specialist service or clinician.