What to Expect in a First Telehealth Therapy Session
Starting therapy is a big step, and doing it through a screen or a phone can raise extra questions. Here is what a first appointment at Hope & Bloom usually looks like, so there are fewer unknowns.
Before the appointment
After you reach out, we start with a free consultation call to talk about what you're looking for and whether we're a good fit. If you decide to move forward, you'll receive paperwork to review and sign ahead of time, including consent and disclosure forms, and a written Good Faith Estimate of expected costs.
Your first session is an intake
The first appointment for new therapy clients is a diagnostic intake assessment, which runs 60–90 minutes. It is mostly a conversation: what brings you in, what's going on in your life and relationships, your history, and what you hope to change. You don't need to prepare a script or tell everything at once. You can go at your own pace, and you can say so when something feels like too much.
By the end, we'll talk about what ongoing support could look like, including session length, video or phone, and whether any extras would help, so the plan fits your schedule and budget.
Setting yourself up
A few things that make it easier
- Privacy: choose a room where you can talk without being overheard. Headphones help. If home isn't private, a parked car (not while driving) can work.
- Location: because I'm licensed in Colorado, you need to be physically in Colorado during each session.
- Technology: a charged phone or laptop and a steady connection. If video freezes, we can switch to a phone call, and it helps to keep the phone number you were given handy.
- Language: English, Spanish, or a mix. You can switch back and forth whenever you like.
- Time: give yourself a few quiet minutes before and after, so you aren't going straight from a meeting into the session or back into one.
It's okay if it feels awkward
Many people expect telehealth to feel less personal and are surprised how natural it becomes. Even so, the first session can feel strange. That's normal, and you're welcome to tell me what's working and what isn't. If we aren't the right fit, I'm glad to help you think through what you need next.
Important
This article is general information, not therapy or medical advice. Telehealth services here aren't monitored for emergencies. If you're in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911.