From Sign-Up to Session: What Happens in Your First Online Therapy Appointment

Starting therapy can feel a little like going on a first date. You might be hopeful, a bit nervous, and not entirely sure what to expect. If you have chosen online therapy, you have already taken a step toward making the process more convenient and comfortable. At our practice, we want you to feel prepared and confident before you log in for that first session. Here is what the process looks like from start to finish.

Before Your Session

Once you connect with our practice, we will talk about what you are hoping to get out of therapy so we can match you with the best possible therapist for your needs. We will also ask for some basic demographic information so we have a better understanding of who you are. After that, we will schedule your first session and send you an invitation to our secure patient portal through SimplePractice. This is where all communication, paperwork, and sessions will take place.

Your initial paperwork will include:

• Our practice policies

• Your rights as a client

• Information about fees and insurance

• Geographical location details for sessions

• Demographic information

• Insurance or payment information

• A couple of short questionnaires to help us better understand your needs

We ask that you complete everything before your first appointment so we can make the most of our time together.

Finding Your Space

One of the biggest perks of virtual therapy is flexibility. You get to choose where your session happens. Maybe it is your living room, your parked car on a lunch break, or a quiet corner of your home office. The key is to pick a spot where you feel safe, comfortable, and as free from distractions as possible.

Some of our clients breastfeed during session or have a little one playing nearby, and that is okay. Just remember that if someone else is present, even a small child, full confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

Your First Session: Getting to Know You

Think of your first session as a “getting acquainted” conversation. We will talk about what brought you to therapy, the challenges you are facing, and your hopes for the future. Together, we will start identifying your goals and the priorities you would like to focus on in our work together.

Sometimes this turns into treatment planning right away. Other times, the intake process takes more than one session, especially if there is a lot to share. Both are completely normal.

Making Sure It Is the Right Fit

The first few sessions are not just about us getting to know you. They are also your opportunity to get to know your therapist. It is normal to feel a little hesitant at first when talking about personal topics with someone new. Over time, you should feel safe, supported, and understood.

If, after a few sessions, you feel like there is a mismatch, perhaps the personalities do not click or the style is not what you were hoping for, you can request to be referred to a different provider. Your comfort is one of the biggest factors in making therapy effective, so we want to make sure the fit feels right.

Bottom line: Starting therapy is an investment in yourself. With virtual sessions, you can do it from the comfort of your own space, and we are here to make the process as smooth, supportive, and empowering as possible.

Taking that first step can feel big, but you do not have to do it alone. Click here to learn more about our team. Let’s begin your path toward feeling better together.