Your first online therapy session is a conversation about what brought you to therapy, what you would like help with, and how you and the therapist might work together. You can ask questions about their approach and discuss next steps. The exact format depends on the therapist and the type of appointment.
For a video appointment, you'll also need a device with internet access and a place where you can speak privately. L and D Wellness provides telehealth therapy throughout California. If you're considering an appointment with Ruby Bell, this guide explains what to ask and how to get ready.
What will we talk about in the first session
You can start with the reason you reached out. Maybe a loss has made work difficult, stress keeps following you home, or a change in your family has left you unsure what to do next. You don't have to explain everything at once.
An example can be easier to describe than a broad label. Instead of trying to summarize your entire week, you might say, "I dread opening my work email, even on weekends." Or, "Since the move, I've stopped making plans with people."
Ask the therapist what they think would be useful to focus on and how you'll decide whether therapy is helping. The National Institute of Mental Health's guide to psychotherapy recommends asking about a therapist's experience, treatment approach, goals, and confidentiality.
Do I need to prepare anything to say
A few notes can help if you tend to lose your train of thought when meeting someone new. Write down what prompted you to look for therapy and a question you want answered. Keep the notes short enough to glance at during the conversation.
You might want to explain something about your background, family expectations, identity, or beliefs that affects how you see the situation. For example, you could say that asking for help is unusual in your family, or that a cultural tradition matters to how you want to approach a loss. Mention what you want the therapist to understand.
It's also fine to say, "I'm not sure where to start." If a question is confusing or you need time to answer, say so. You can ask the therapist to explain why they're asking.
How do I get ready for the video appointment
Confirm which appointment you're requesting, its length, and the time zone. A consultation and a first therapy appointment may serve different purposes, so ask if the service name is unclear. Check any instructions the practice sends before appointment day.
Test the camera, microphone, sound, and internet connection on the device you'll use. Charge it and find out where to access the appointment link. The HHS telehealth preparation guide recommends checking your visit details and technology ahead of time.
Ask what to do if the connection drops or you cannot join. Keep the practice's phone number nearby. HHS guidance on appointment preparation recommends agreeing on these practical details before a visit.
Where should I sit during online therapy
Choose a quiet place where other people are unlikely to overhear you. Think about who will be home during your appointment and whether you can close a door. Headphones keep the therapist's voice more private, but people nearby may still hear your side of the conversation.
When possible, use a personal device and a private internet connection. Turn off nearby smart speakers or other devices that might record the conversation. These steps follow HHS privacy guidance for telehealth patients.
If finding privacy is difficult, discuss that with the practice before scheduling. An evening opening is useful only if you also have a workable place to attend. Let the practice know if you'll be traveling, and confirm where you need to be located for your session.
What should I ask about costs and scheduling
Ask for the appointment fee and cancellation policy before confirming. If you plan to use insurance, have the practice verify your specific plan for the provider and service you're requesting. A practice accepting an insurer does not automatically tell you whether a particular appointment is covered or what you'll owe.
Be specific about your availability. "Tuesday after 5 p.m. or Saturday morning" gives the practice more useful information than "sometime after work." Include whether those times would work regularly or only for the first appointment.
If you need to arrange childcare or change a work shift, ask about the session length before making those plans. Write down any payment or scheduling questions before you call. Having them together can help you get the information you need without remembering another question after the conversation ends.
How do I request telehealth therapy with Ruby
Contact the practice to ask about current openings, including evening and weekend appointments. Her areas of focus include grief, anxiety, stress, life transitions, and emotional wellness.
Ruby is a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC #20110, employed by L and D Wellness & Counseling Center Inc. and supervised by a licensed mental health professional.
Visit Ruby's provider page to learn more and request an appointment. You can also call L and D Wellness at (661) 669-8554. Share the times that work for you and any questions about getting started. Appointment requests need confirmation from the practice before a visit is booked.
SOURCES
HHS: What should I know before my telehealth visit?
HHS: Helping patients prepare for their telehealth appointment
