Transgender Therapists in Wimberley, TX

Photo of Savannah Stoute - Savannah Stoute, LPC-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Savannah Stoute, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Wimberley, TX 78676  (Online Only)
The world is a tough place right now. We're all living in a state of constant stress. When we think we have it all figured out, life throws us a curve ball, political ups & downs, the death of a loved one or taking care of an ill loved one. Imagine adding a layer of anxiety or depression. What about introversion? Just for fun, let's also add a layer for people that identify as LGBTQ+. Coming out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, non binary, or gender fluid can be confusing for your straight, cis family and friends. Whether you identify with this because you experience this regularly or someone you love feels this way.
The world is a tough place right now. We're all living in a state of constant stress. When we think we have it all figured out, life throws us a curve ball, political ups & downs, the death of a loved one or taking care of an ill loved one. Imagine adding a layer of anxiety or depression. What about introversion? Just for fun, let's also add a layer for people that identify as LGBTQ+. Coming out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, non binary, or gender fluid can be confusing for your straight, cis family and friends. Whether you identify with this because you experience this regularly or someone you love feels this way.
(512) 872-5379 View (512) 872-5379
Photo of Tony Vitela - Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(210) 941-2132 View (210) 941-2132
Photo of Scott Caton, LPC, LSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Caton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Along the road, we all developed temporary tools to solve the problems in our lives. Unfortunately, we often forgot to stop using those tools, and they became "permanent." In the end, using the wrong tool to solve a problem does not make one's life better, only worse. In therapy, I work with adolescents and adults to re-tool and get more of what they want out of life. Let's get started!
Along the road, we all developed temporary tools to solve the problems in our lives. Unfortunately, we often forgot to stop using those tools, and they became "permanent." In the end, using the wrong tool to solve a problem does not make one's life better, only worse. In therapy, I work with adolescents and adults to re-tool and get more of what they want out of life. Let's get started!
(512) 270-3856 View (512) 270-3856
Photo of Juli Acuna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Juli Acuna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Juli Acuña is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. With experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, Juli aims to help children, youth, and adults gain the skills needed to overcome life's challenges, set and attain their personal goals, and form healthier relationships with those around them. With a relationship-centered approach, she hopes to provide an affirming and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore thinking and behavioral habits which can help them form healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Juli Acuña is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. With experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, Juli aims to help children, youth, and adults gain the skills needed to overcome life's challenges, set and attain their personal goals, and form healthier relationships with those around them. With a relationship-centered approach, she hopes to provide an affirming and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore thinking and behavioral habits which can help them form healthier relationships with themselves and others.
(737) 345-4969 View (737) 345-4969
Photo of Mary Ruth Roberts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ruth Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Mary Ruth Roberts is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, she began training in Nutrition. Mary became a Registered Dietitian for many years while continuing to work in Mental Health. Mary offers a variety of evidence-based practices such as training in CBT, CPT, Certified in The Neuro Change Method, and other evidence-based practices such as DBT, ACT, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. Mary has worked with adolescents and adults for more than 20 years and provided a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy.
Mary Ruth Roberts is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, she began training in Nutrition. Mary became a Registered Dietitian for many years while continuing to work in Mental Health. Mary offers a variety of evidence-based practices such as training in CBT, CPT, Certified in The Neuro Change Method, and other evidence-based practices such as DBT, ACT, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. Mary has worked with adolescents and adults for more than 20 years and provided a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy.
(737) 345-2780 View (737) 345-2780
Photo of Ian Woodwick, PsyD, Psychologist
Ian Woodwick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wimberley, TX 78676
Ian Woodwick is a Psychologist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Ian humbly approaches each person where they are as a unique human being in the context of their family, culture, and world. Each of us is on our own beautiful journey through this life and therapy is a place in which to see ourselves from a different, judgment-free perspective. Ian's intent is to work together on whatever concerns you have. He primarily uses techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic/Existential therapy. Ian also incorporates somewhat relevant pop-culture references at will.
Ian Woodwick is a Psychologist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Ian humbly approaches each person where they are as a unique human being in the context of their family, culture, and world. Each of us is on our own beautiful journey through this life and therapy is a place in which to see ourselves from a different, judgment-free perspective. Ian's intent is to work together on whatever concerns you have. He primarily uses techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic/Existential therapy. Ian also incorporates somewhat relevant pop-culture references at will.
(737) 520-7597 View (737) 520-7597
Photo of Candace McArthur - The Sparrows Collective, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Sparrows Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
You have tried the discipline, the goal setting, the "fake it til you make it," the busyness, the books, the podcasts, the rigidity, the perfection, the formulas, the positivity, and yet you still feel stuck and without hope. ‘Is this really what life is going to be like forever?” you ask quietly to yourself. Dear soul, it is time to return home. To learn to breath, rest, and attune all in the safety of your own body. Together we will make room for the thinking, feeling, and sensing body to emerge. It's time to plant roots in the goodness of your body, your "youness" and the wisdom already blooming within you.
You have tried the discipline, the goal setting, the "fake it til you make it," the busyness, the books, the podcasts, the rigidity, the perfection, the formulas, the positivity, and yet you still feel stuck and without hope. ‘Is this really what life is going to be like forever?” you ask quietly to yourself. Dear soul, it is time to return home. To learn to breath, rest, and attune all in the safety of your own body. Together we will make room for the thinking, feeling, and sensing body to emerge. It's time to plant roots in the goodness of your body, your "youness" and the wisdom already blooming within you.
(512) 548-4227 View (512) 548-4227
Photo of Sheila Lea Nielsen, MBA, CCCHt
Sheila Lea Nielsen
MBA, CCCHt
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Sheila has been personally practicing hypnotherapy for over 35 years, her passion for this results therapy has led her into creating a Certifying Hypnotherapy School (Hypnotherapy Professional College, LLC), instructing students on learning and developing their own practice. Sheila also teaches groups on personal development and overcoming their past beliefs; Her background as a business owner, executive, parent and a divorce consultants helps her to relate to her clients needs and understanding how to overcome their behaviors.
Sheila has been personally practicing hypnotherapy for over 35 years, her passion for this results therapy has led her into creating a Certifying Hypnotherapy School (Hypnotherapy Professional College, LLC), instructing students on learning and developing their own practice. Sheila also teaches groups on personal development and overcoming their past beliefs; Her background as a business owner, executive, parent and a divorce consultants helps her to relate to her clients needs and understanding how to overcome their behaviors.
(406) 215-4271 View (406) 215-4271
Photo of Kathleen Womansong, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Womansong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wimberley, TX 78676
In my two decades as therapist, I have been honored to witness people move through incredible challenges and sometimes transform the trajectory of their lives, Just as our bodies send healing to our physical wounds, we hold inside us all we need to be move through tremendous struggles to emerge whole. Our innate capacity to heal is in all of us. It is outside of our awareness because our minds are full of noise. I help my clients become inner explorers. I help them develop a lens of self-compassion, freedom from judgment and gentle curiosity about themselves. When we are at peace within ourselves, everything is possible.
In my two decades as therapist, I have been honored to witness people move through incredible challenges and sometimes transform the trajectory of their lives, Just as our bodies send healing to our physical wounds, we hold inside us all we need to be move through tremendous struggles to emerge whole. Our innate capacity to heal is in all of us. It is outside of our awareness because our minds are full of noise. I help my clients become inner explorers. I help them develop a lens of self-compassion, freedom from judgment and gentle curiosity about themselves. When we are at peace within ourselves, everything is possible.
(512) 515-9808 View (512) 515-9808
Photo of Kitty Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kitty Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wimberley, TX 78676
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy providing practical tools to help you navigate through life's inevitable losses and other challenges. I think of myself as a guide, assisting folks through stuck places or daunting challenges, allowing them to increase resilience and personal empowerment. We are living in fascinating times, which can be both exhilarating and terrifying. I encourage embracing the sometimes messy entirety of what life rolls out for each individual.
I enjoy providing practical tools to help you navigate through life's inevitable losses and other challenges. I think of myself as a guide, assisting folks through stuck places or daunting challenges, allowing them to increase resilience and personal empowerment. We are living in fascinating times, which can be both exhilarating and terrifying. I encourage embracing the sometimes messy entirety of what life rolls out for each individual.
(512) 649-0026 View (512) 649-0026

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angela Tierney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Tierney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Driftwood, TX 78619
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
(512) 553-8902 View (512) 553-8902

Online Therapists

Photo of Nicole Davis-Burch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Davis-Burch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed therapist who specializes in the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender & nonbinary people.
I have a genuine love for people. I understand that seeking therapy may sometimes feel intimidating, but I try to create a safe, supportive space for people to explore opportunities for growth and change in their lives.
I'm a licensed therapist who specializes in the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender & nonbinary people.
I have a genuine love for people. I understand that seeking therapy may sometimes feel intimidating, but I try to create a safe, supportive space for people to explore opportunities for growth and change in their lives.
(254) 274-0483 View (254) 274-0483
Photo of Maureen Havelka - Tipping the Scales Psychotherapy, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tipping the Scales Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Welcome, I am so happy you’re here! “Tipping the Scales: Psychotherapy to Deconstruct and Empower, PLLC” is a therapeutic practice designed to cater to people who are Transgender, LGBQ, Sex Workers, Polyamorous and Kink identified. The goal of this practice is to help to you explore and deconstruct any previously installed beliefs, value systems, moral frameworks or patterns of behavior and thinking that are no longer serving you so that you can lead your most empowered and authentic life on YOUR terms.
Welcome, I am so happy you’re here! “Tipping the Scales: Psychotherapy to Deconstruct and Empower, PLLC” is a therapeutic practice designed to cater to people who are Transgender, LGBQ, Sex Workers, Polyamorous and Kink identified. The goal of this practice is to help to you explore and deconstruct any previously installed beliefs, value systems, moral frameworks or patterns of behavior and thinking that are no longer serving you so that you can lead your most empowered and authentic life on YOUR terms.
(737) 345-2393 View (737) 345-2393
Photo of Adam A Sauceda, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam A Sauceda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Are you looking for assistance with navigating your gender journey? I work with a variety of presenting concerns, however my specialization is working with trans or gender diverse individuals. I utilize a gender affirmative approach when working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a GEI Certified Member of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and routinely follow the WPATH Standards of Care in my clinical practice. I am able to provide local and national resources to assist you and your loved ones with support while exploring your gender expression and identity.
Are you looking for assistance with navigating your gender journey? I work with a variety of presenting concerns, however my specialization is working with trans or gender diverse individuals. I utilize a gender affirmative approach when working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a GEI Certified Member of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and routinely follow the WPATH Standards of Care in my clinical practice. I am able to provide local and national resources to assist you and your loved ones with support while exploring your gender expression and identity.
(210) 693-0827 View (210) 693-0827
Photo of Janet Lantry, LCSW-S, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Lantry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RYT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
Are you seeking relief and improved functioning, using evidence-based approaches and an integration of the mind and body? Janet specializes in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance use disorders, and uses play therapy as a primary modality when working with children. She is certified in EMDR. She works with all genders, including people who identify as transgender and non-binary and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Janet also has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty service members, and their families, with a unique empathy for being a military child.
Are you seeking relief and improved functioning, using evidence-based approaches and an integration of the mind and body? Janet specializes in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance use disorders, and uses play therapy as a primary modality when working with children. She is certified in EMDR. She works with all genders, including people who identify as transgender and non-binary and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Janet also has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty service members, and their families, with a unique empathy for being a military child.
(210) 981-3936 View (210) 981-3936
Photo of Megan Diann Chandler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Diann Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 73301  (Online Only)
Hi there! Welcome to my page! As a queer therapist, I have seen (and experienced) some of life's hardest challenges aimed at the LGBTQIA+ community- this is exactly why I chose to open my practice. I wanted to ensure ALL individuals felt welcomed and safe. Over the years, I have gained experience working with many different diagnoses and levels of care. These areas include mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, disordered eating, LGBTQIA+ concerns, gender dysphoria and depression. My hope is that my clients leave my office feeling heard, validated and with clear direction of the future.
Hi there! Welcome to my page! As a queer therapist, I have seen (and experienced) some of life's hardest challenges aimed at the LGBTQIA+ community- this is exactly why I chose to open my practice. I wanted to ensure ALL individuals felt welcomed and safe. Over the years, I have gained experience working with many different diagnoses and levels of care. These areas include mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, disordered eating, LGBTQIA+ concerns, gender dysphoria and depression. My hope is that my clients leave my office feeling heard, validated and with clear direction of the future.
(817) 646-9753 View (817) 646-9753
Photo of Rachel Hanss, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Hanss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I work with clients from many backgrounds and specialize in working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and couples.
Are you ready to make a change or need help figuring out how to move forward? Are you ready for more in your career, your relationships, or need relief from stress? Maybe you're not feeling yourself. I am here and want to help you. I have a broad base of experience and specialize in helping with relationships and premarital counseling, career development and changes, stabilizing mood and functioning in daily life, recovery from substance abuse, family building and infertility, developing new ways of relating to others as well as consultation for clinical leaders & non-profit managers.
I work with clients from many backgrounds and specialize in working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and couples.
Are you ready to make a change or need help figuring out how to move forward? Are you ready for more in your career, your relationships, or need relief from stress? Maybe you're not feeling yourself. I am here and want to help you. I have a broad base of experience and specialize in helping with relationships and premarital counseling, career development and changes, stabilizing mood and functioning in daily life, recovery from substance abuse, family building and infertility, developing new ways of relating to others as well as consultation for clinical leaders & non-profit managers.
(512) 523-5262 View (512) 523-5262
Photo of Luce O'Steen, MSMFT, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Luce O'Steen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
Ideal clients: transgender, non-binary, gender queer, kinky, polyamorous, non-monogamous, sapphic, lesbian.
I’m fucking tired, too – of all of it – but nothing is going to change until we dig deep into the roots of how we got here. We must reckon with our personal and collective past if we’re going to have any real hope of a future worth living in. Healing is like vomiting – the only way to feel better is to get it out. I will be like that friend who holds your hair back as you release whatever’s ailing you. This is a collective effort that we all must hold ourselves accountable to… just come find me when you’re ready to hug the toilet.
Ideal clients: transgender, non-binary, gender queer, kinky, polyamorous, non-monogamous, sapphic, lesbian.
I’m fucking tired, too – of all of it – but nothing is going to change until we dig deep into the roots of how we got here. We must reckon with our personal and collective past if we’re going to have any real hope of a future worth living in. Healing is like vomiting – the only way to feel better is to get it out. I will be like that friend who holds your hair back as you release whatever’s ailing you. This is a collective effort that we all must hold ourselves accountable to… just come find me when you’re ready to hug the toilet.
(817) 631-4033 View (817) 631-4033
Photo of Mary B Mattis, LCSW-S, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary B Mattis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Working with Transgender clients for over 10 years.
To be fully alive in the 21st century, each of us has to make a conscious choice. Barriers can arise, challenging our ability to maintain personal values, stay mentally and emotionally stable, and live a life of our choosing. Mary works to help clients realize their version of a rich and balanced life. She provides a safe, supportive, judgment-free space to help you work through barriers that lie between where you are and where you want to be. What would you do if you knew you would not fail? Let's work together to find out. Mary B. Mattis at SoCo offers Clinical Supervision to LMSWs working toward LCSW status.
Working with Transgender clients for over 10 years.
To be fully alive in the 21st century, each of us has to make a conscious choice. Barriers can arise, challenging our ability to maintain personal values, stay mentally and emotionally stable, and live a life of our choosing. Mary works to help clients realize their version of a rich and balanced life. She provides a safe, supportive, judgment-free space to help you work through barriers that lie between where you are and where you want to be. What would you do if you knew you would not fail? Let's work together to find out. Mary B. Mattis at SoCo offers Clinical Supervision to LMSWs working toward LCSW status.
(512) 605-0862 View (512) 605-0862
Photo of Eridian Winter, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eridian Winter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
As a transgender, queer, and neurodivergent person myself, I am in this field to support you.
Let's decolonize mental health. Your well-being should not come at the expense of authenticity. No matter where you are in your life, the world can feel isolating and exhausting, especially when we do not fit neatly into narrow roles we are told are acceptable. Through connection and community, we develop the skills and language to describe our experiences. You get to define the terms of your own existence, you may already have the words or they could be difficult to find. Our therapeutic connection can provide a space for you to feel safe and supported in creating your space in the world.
As a transgender, queer, and neurodivergent person myself, I am in this field to support you.
Let's decolonize mental health. Your well-being should not come at the expense of authenticity. No matter where you are in your life, the world can feel isolating and exhausting, especially when we do not fit neatly into narrow roles we are told are acceptable. Through connection and community, we develop the skills and language to describe our experiences. You get to define the terms of your own existence, you may already have the words or they could be difficult to find. Our therapeutic connection can provide a space for you to feel safe and supported in creating your space in the world.
(737) 265-5178 View (737) 265-5178
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.