Preparing for a Telehealth Appointment

Telehealth counseling has become overwhelmingly popular because of the convenience it provides for people in need. For many, working with a busy schedule, commuting to a clinic, and sitting in an unfamiliar waiting room adds to the stress of the already emotional experience of therapy. Telehealth simplifies the therapeutic journey, allowing you to settle into a familiar space and begin your session on your terms with just a few clicks.

Preparing for Your First Telehealth Session

Comfort and confidentiality are key when preparing for your telehealth appointment. First, it is important that you are in a space where you feel safe and comfortable to talk about what is salient for you. Some people feel the most at ease tucked into bed while others feel good relaxing on their couch or sitting in their home office. If you find yourself away from your home base, telehealth services can meet you were you are. Whether connecting from a hotel room or from your parked car, you can talk with your counselor as usual without issue.

• Prep Step: Before your first telehealth appointment, determine where feels like the best place for you to do therapy. Questions like, where do I feel the most comfortable in my home? and what space is quiet and distraction-free? are good starting points. Try sitting in your chosen space before your session and take note of how you feel.

The other key part of the telehealth experience is confidentiality. To keep your virtual session feeling as if you were meeting in person, you can expect that your counselor will always be in a confidential, distraction-free space for the duration of your time together. This means that no one will interrupt, overhear, or intrude on your meeting and your counselor will be completely focused on the session. It is expected that you will also be in a confidential, distraction-free space so that you can talk freely without interruption.

• Prep Step: In your chosen space for therapy, ask yourself, can I be truly alone in this space without distraction or interruption? and how best can I limit the possibility of disruption? Some people close or lock the door during their therapy appointment, others find it helpful to put a do not disturb sign on their door to let others know they are busy. Some people set up their appointment for a time of day where they will be alone in their space.

Internet Connection

A final key step to a successful telehealth appointment is ensuring you have a stable internet connection. Strong, reliable internet helps avoid screen freezes, audio issues, and unexpected dropped video. You and your counselor will make a back-up plan to connect just in case the unexpected happens, so don't worry if issues arise despite your best efforts.

• Prep Step: Take note of where your wifi router is in your home or living space. Try to be in a room by your router so that your internet connection is strong. You may even opt to do a test video from your room of choice to ensure a good connection.

Bonus Tip: Camera Position

A best practice tip of your telehealth appointments is positioning your camera so that your counselor can see you. This greatly adds to the quality of communication between you and your counselor, as your words and body language can be fully understood. To achieve this, positioning your camera so that your head and shoulders are in view is best. If you are more comfortable sitting on the floor or laying down during your session, make sure that your camera can at least see your head and shoulders.

• Prep Step: Open your device's camera and place the device so that your upper body and head can be seen. You might find that a few modifications are needed to achieve the right view, such as propping up your device with a book or moving your device closer or farther away.

You're All Set!

You're now primed for a great first telehealth session with your counselor. Whether you are on the road or settled into your favorite spot, you have all the tips and tools needed for a connected session. May you always find therapy in convenient and comfortable spaces that help you feel seen and connected.