what to expect when starting online therapy
Starting therapy can be scary and anxiety inducing, whether you’re meeting in person or virtually. One thing that can help the most with your nerves about therapy is to know what to expect beforehand. So here are some main things you can expect as you prepare for your first online session.
Your therapist will provide you with a unique link each week to join the session. Some therapists will use a HIPAA compliant Zoom while others will use different platforms specifically for therapy such as SimplePractice. In my own practice I use SimplePractice where you will receive confirmation emails/texts whenever an appointment is made and reminders leading up to your appointment.
Before your session your therapist may send you an intake questionnaire to get to know you a bit before your first meeting. This form can help your therapist have a general idea of why you’re starting therapy and your main goals. This form is also an opportunity for you to put down the most important things you want your therapist to know right away.
Your therapist will also send you different consent forms and practice policies for you to look over and sign before you session.
Your therapist will more than likely have you set up your billing information prior to your first session. Many therapists use SimplePractice for billing or Ivy pay, if you’re using insurance this is also when your therapist will input all of your insurance information to make sure everything is good to go before your session.
Once you’ve logged on for your appointment you will find yourself in a virtual waiting room, your therapist will admit you into the session once they log in.
Your intake session will look a bit different than future sessions. Your intake session will be used to learn all about you and gather important information. Your therapist will ask you about your goals, presenting problem, how your problem is impacting your daily life, relationships, and more. If this makes you feel overwhelmed the good news is that you are allowed to decline answering any questions that make you uncomfortable or you’re not ready to discuss yet. Some therapists will even complete a treatment plan with you during the session.
At the end of your session your therapist and you will agree upon frequency for sessions and set up the next session.
And that’s it! These are the main things to expect for your very first virtual therapy session. Ready to get started? Click the button below to send me a message to set up your consultation call.
