The intake session is the first meeting between a therapist and a client, conducted to evaluate the client's clinical needs. During this initial appointment, the therapist gathers key information, such as the presenting problem, available support systems, and insurance details. The therapist also explains important aspects of treatment, including confidentiality and fees. A primary outcome of the intake is the collaborative development of a treatment plan, which involves setting treatment goals with specific, measurable objectives, determining how success will be measured, and estimating the length of the therapy.