The quiet dread before my therapy sessions is messing with my progress

I’ve been seeing a therapist for about three months now to tackle some persistent anxiety. The sessions themselves usually help, but the hours leading up to each appointment are a real struggle. I start feeling this heavy, quiet dread that makes me want to cancel or just zone out completely. It’s frustrating because I want to get better and I know the sessions are important, but this buildup sometimes spirals into a full-blown panic. I’ve tried journaling beforehand and doing some light meditation, but the dread still sneaks in. It’s like my brain knows what’s coming and just rebels. I’m hoping to find ways to ease that pre-session anxiety so I can show up with a clearer head and make the most of the time. Has anyone else dealt with this kind of anticipatory dread before therapy? What helped you push through and actually feel calmer going in?