Beginning your journey to mental wellness can feel daunting. And if you’re choosing telehealth, you may be even overwhelmed, with no idea what to expect.
At Reverent Health Psychiatry, our aim is for patients to feel comfortable and safe during their first online psychiatry appointment. For this to happen, patient preparation is also essential. So, here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect and how to prepare for your first telehealth psychiatry appointment.
What to Expect During Your First Online Psychiatry Appointment
Your first session usually lasts longer than follow-ups, and the duration varies from person to person but is usually between 45–60 minutes. During the session, you may discuss:
- Your background
- Your symptoms and medical history
- Your goals for treatment
- Options for therapy, medication, or both.
Bear in mind that it is a conversation, not an interrogation. The goal is to understand your needs and create a plan together, so feel free to express yourself and be truthful about your responses.
7 Steps for Preparing for Your First Online Psychiatry Appointment
- Gather Your Medical and Mental Health History
Before your appointment, take note of the following, possibly writing them down:
- Current medications, including dosage and how often you take them
- History of therapy, hospitalizations, or previous treatments
- Past psychiatric or medical diagnoses
- Family mental health history, if known.
Having these details ready will help your provider understand the full picture from the start.
- List Your Current Symptoms and Concerns
Think about the challenges that brought you to seek care. While you may not have all the answers, try to note:
- Triggers or patterns you’ve noticed
- When your symptoms started
- How often they occur and how severe they feel
- How your daily life, including work, school, relationships, sleep, appetite, etc, is affected
These details will inform your provider’s assessment and help them to tailor treatment to your needs.
- Test Your Technology
Since your appointment will hold via secure video or phone, it is important to ensure that your technology is in the right working condition. You should:
- Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged
- Test your camera, microphone, and speakers
- Confirm that you have a stable internet connection.
- Download or install any apps / platforms required for the session, ahead of time.
Doing this beforehand prevents last-minute stress and ensures that you get the most of the session.
- Choose a Quiet, Private Space
Confidentiality matters, even in online psychiatry. Try to find:
- A quiet room where you won’t be interrupted or distracted
- Headphones, if needed, for added privacy
- Good lighting so your provider can see you clearly
When you’re assured of privacy, you will easily express yourself and provide essential details for optimum support.
- Have Your ID and Insurance Ready
Many providers need to verify your identity and confirm coverage. So, prepare to provide your:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Insurance card (if using insurance)
- Payment method (if self-pay)
This makes payment and onboarding easy, allowing the appointment to start smoothly.
- Write Down Your Questions
Again, it is a conversation and not a one-sided interrogation. Your first session is also your chance to find answers to questions you are curious about. Prepare to ask about:
- What treatment options are available to you, whether therapy, medication, or both
- Potential side effects of any medication prescribed
- When follow-up appointments will take place and what they look like
- How to reach your provider between sessions
Having these written out in a list ensures you won’t forget something important.
- Complete New Patient Forms Early
If your provider asks you to fill out forms online such as intake paperwork or symptom checklists, do them before the appointment. This saves time during the session and gives your provider useful background to work with.
Final Thoughts
When you prepare for your first online psychiatry appointment, it helps you feel more at ease and makes the session more productive. Remember that you do not need to have everything figured out before the appointment; your provider is there to guide you.At Reverent Health Psychiatry, we make online psychiatry simple, supportive, and effective. Ready to begin? Schedule your appointment today.
