Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
A prospective client is an individual who is considering seeking services from a psychologist but has not yet begun formal therapy or counseling sessions with them.
Related terms
Intake Assessment: An intake assessment is an initial evaluation conducted by the psychologist to gather information about the prospective client's background, mental health concerns, goals for treatment, etc.
Referral: A referral occurs when one professional directs or recommends a prospective client to another professional who may better meet their specific needs.
Waiting List: A waiting list refers to an organized list of prospective clients who are awaiting availability for therapy sessions due to limited resources or high demand.