Your First Telehealth Visit
What to know before your first appointment
Before Your Appointment
Complete Your Paperwork
You'll receive a link to intake paperwork through the patient portal. Complete this before your appointment or we may need to reschedule.
What to Have Ready
- List of current medications with dosages
- Any relevant medical records or lab results
If Using a Computer or Tablet
No app is needed. Just click the link you'll receive before your appointment. Use a current browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge).
If Using a Phone
You'll need one of two SimplePractice apps. Either one works for telehealth:
- Telehealth by SimplePractice — a simple, focused app just for video appointments. Join by clicking the link sent to you.
- SimplePractice Client Portal — the full patient portal app for paperwork, messaging, and scheduling. You can also join telehealth appointments directly from your schedule in the app without needing a link.
Download either app ahead of time:
Telehealth by SimplePractice:
SimplePractice Client Portal:
Setting Up
Location Requirement
You must be in Washington State at the time of your appointment. This is a legal requirement.
Choose a Private Space
Find a quiet place where you can talk freely without interruptions or being overheard.
Check Your Connection
Use Wi-Fi if possible and close other apps or browser tabs to ensure smooth video.
Joining Your Appointment
How to Join
You'll receive a link via email and/or text message before your appointment, depending on your communication preferences. Click the link at your appointment time — it will open in your browser or the Telehealth app, depending on your device.
If you're using the Client Portal app, you can also join directly from your schedule without needing the link.
Allow camera and microphone access when prompted.
Join a Few Minutes Early
Log in 2-3 minutes early to make sure everything works. If you have technical issues, message me through the patient portal.
During Your Appointment
Initial Evaluation (75 minutes)
Expect about 75 minutes, though visits can range from 60 to 90 minutes. Simpler visits may be shorter, and pediatric or complex evaluations often run longer.
We'll discuss:
- What brings you in and your current concerns
- Medical history and current medications
- Previous treatment experiences
- Your goals for treatment
Treatment Planning
We'll discuss next steps at the end. Sometimes medication is appropriate at the first visit; other times I may recommend gathering more information first.
Follow-Up Appointments
Initially we'll meet every 1-4 weeks, then every 1-3 months once you're stable. Follow-ups can be telehealth or in-person. Controlled medications may require occasional in-person visits.
Children & Adolescents
Parent or guardian involvement is part of the evaluation. Follow-up visits may need extra time to gather information from parents, teachers, or other caregivers.
After Your Appointment
Billing
You'll receive an invoice for any amount owed (co-pay, deductible, or coinsurance if using insurance).
Prescriptions
If medication is prescribed, I'll send it to your pharmacy electronically, usually right after the appointment.
Questions
Use the patient portal for brief logistical questions. Clinical concerns will require an additional appointment.