A Guide to Online Therapy
Your First Telehealth Session
Starting therapy by video is simpler than most people expect. A little setup ahead of time helps you spend your first session talking, not troubleshooting.
Before Your Session
You will receive a secure video link before your appointment. A laptop or tablet works best, though a phone is fine too. Test your camera, microphone and internet connection the day before so nothing catches you off guard.
- Charge your device or keep it plugged in
- Use headphones if others are home
- Keep a glass of water and tissues nearby
- Join a few minutes early in case the link needs a moment
Finding Privacy at Home
Privacy is the part people worry about most. Pick a spot where you can close a door, and let the people you live with know you need that time. Some people use a parked car, a bedroom with the door shut, or a quiet office during a lunch break.
If someone walks in, it is okay to pause. Your therapist will understand. You must be located in Texas during each session, so if you travel, let us know ahead of time.
What Happens in the First Session
The first session is mostly a conversation. Your therapist will ask what brings you in, what you hope will change, and a little about your history, your family and what support you already have. You decide how much to share. Nothing has to be said all at once.
Toward the end, you and your therapist will talk about goals and how often to meet. Sessions are 45 or 60 minutes (30 or 45 minutes with a Graduate Counselor Intern). Many people feel some relief just from saying things out loud for the first time.
After the First Session
It is normal to feel tired or stirred up afterward. Plan something gentle for the rest of the day if you can, like a walk, a meal you enjoy or an early night. If you need to reschedule a future session, please give us 24 to 48 hours of notice.
Between sessions, notice what comes up. A thought you keep returning to or a moment that hit hard is worth bringing back next time.
If something about the fit did not feel right, say so. Your therapist wants to know, and at a group practice we can help you find someone else if needed.
Sessions happen by secure video for clients located in Texas. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
Clinicians for This
Demetria FlowersLPC Associate, MAPractices under the supervision of a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S).
Lyndsay DawsonLPC Associate, MAPractices under the supervision of a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S).
Debbie VidanaGraduate Counselor InternPractices under the supervision of a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S).
Common Questions
- Is online therapy as effective as meeting in person?
- For many concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief and relationship issues, research shows video therapy works well. Many people also find it easier to open up from home.
- What if my internet drops during a session?
- Rejoin the link if you can. If the connection keeps failing, your therapist can call you to finish the session or plan the next step.
- Can I do a session from my car?
- Yes, as long as the car is parked, you are alone in it, you are somewhere safe and private, and you are in Texas. Your counselor will reschedule if you are in a moving vehicle. A car can be a good option when home is busy.
Ready to Begin?
Ready to set up your first video session? Call, text or email, and we will find a time that works for you.