Your first virtual mental health appointment might feel a bit strange, but online therapy and psychiatry offer flexibility that fits seamlessly into your complex life.
Before Your Visit: Preparing Your Space
Creating the right environment ahead of time will help you get the most from your session. Start by making sure you have a reliable internet connection, a device with both a camera and microphone, and a phone handy as a backup communication method in case of technical difficulties.
It’s also helpful to set up a private, quiet space where you feel comfortable and safe to express yourself, and be sure to communicate to others in your household that you need uninterrupted time. Consider using headphones for better privacy and clarity, and keep comfort items nearby, such as water, tissues, or a cozy blanket, to help you feel grounded.
Testing your setup 10 minutes before your session will ensure everything runs smoothly, so you can focus fully on your well-being rather than on technology. If connection issues do arise, know that your provider has protocols in place. We can transition to phone if needed, and we’re committed to ensuring you receive your complete session time. These minor interruptions won’t diminish the quality of care you receive.
During Your Session
When it’s time for your appointment, simply click the secure link we’ve emailed you to join the call. At our clinic, we primarily use Zoom for telehealth visits. Your clinician will be there, ready to welcome you with the same warmth and presence you would experience in an in-person visit.
What surprises many people is how quickly the technology fades into the background, and how online sessions feel remarkably natural after the first few minutes. For therapy sessions, you’ll explore thoughts, feelings, and patterns in a space of compassionate understanding. For psychiatric visits, your provider will listen deeply to your experiences, discuss lifestyle, psychotherapy, or medication options, and co-create a personalized treatment approach to your care.
Your confidentiality matters to us. Know you are protected by the same privacy laws as in-person visits. We use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms.
The Benefits of Virtual Mental Health Care
Being in your own environment during therapy can actually enhance your session in many ways. Most people find that the comfort of familiar surroundings allows for deeper exploration, while the lack of a commute reduces stress before and after vulnerable conversations. This setup also makes it easier to immediately integrate insights into your daily life and share relevant aspects of your environment with your provider when appropriate.
Tears, laughter, and profound insights are all welcomed and supported in this space. In fact, many clients discover that the slight psychological distance created by the screen helps them express vulnerable feelings more freely.
After Your Session
Consider taking a few moments after your session to reflect or journal before returning to daily activities. Just like in-person visits, you can easily schedule follow-up appointments and communicate with your clinician between sessions.
A Pathway to Genuine Wellness
Online mental health care isn’t merely a convenient alternative. It’s a legitimate, effective way to get support and care. While the format may initially feel different, most people quickly appreciate the convenience and comfort virtual sessions offer.
Our clinicians have extensive experience in virtual care and will guide you with compassion through any unfamiliar moments. The courage you’ve shown in taking this step toward mental wellness matters far more than the medium through which you receive support.
We’re here to meet you exactly where you are on your journey toward clarity, resilience, and wellbeing. To get started, please contact us at 212.621.7770 or info@mindbody7.com where we will set you up with the clinicians that best suit your individual needs.
