What to Expect in Your First Telehealth Therapy Session — Answers from a Jackson, Michigan–Based Therapist

The COVID-19 pandemic helped normalize telehealth and virtual therapy in the mental health world. Believe it or not, some therapists were offering telehealth counseling long before the pandemic—especially for clients in rural areas of Michigan with limited access to mental health care providers.

If you’re thinking about starting therapy for the first time and are considering telehealth, it can be an excellent option. While many clinicians now offer in-person counseling, I’m a therapist in Jackson, MI, who currently provides therapy exclusively through telehealth. Virtual sessions allow me to work with clients across Jackson, Michigan, and throughout the state—making therapy more accessible for those managing busy schedules, transportation barriers, or anxiety about visiting an office.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect in your first telehealth therapy session—whether you’re new to counseling, unsure about virtual therapy, or simply curious about how online therapy works. My goal is to help you feel confident and prepared to take the first step toward improving your mental health, reducing anxiety, and finding the right support.

What is Telehealth Therapy?

Telehealth therapy, also called virtual therapy or online therapy, is any mental health or healthcare service provided through a secure video session or audio-only call. Instead of meeting with your healthcare provider in person at an office, your session happens remotely—allowing you to connect from home, work, or anywhere you have privacy.

Compared to in-person counseling, telehealth can be more convenient for people with busy schedules. Many clinicians only have a limited number of evening, weekend, or lunch-hour appointments. With telehealth, you save time by skipping the commute to a therapy office, which can make it easier to fit therapy into your life.

That said, telehealth feels different than in-person sessions. If you process and interpret information best face-to-face, are easily distracted, or have difficulty setting boundaries with your environment during appointments, you might need to plan ahead to create the right space for your session.

One of the biggest benefits of telehealth counseling is access to specialized care. You’re no longer limited to the therapists in your immediate area—you can work with a licensed therapist anywhere in Michigan. This is especially helpful if you live in a smaller town or rural area without many mental health providers. Telehealth also offers flexibility for ongoing clients who typically meet in person but can’t make it into the office one week—they can easily switch to a virtual session and still receive the care they need.

How to Prepare for Your First Telehealth Session

There are several components to preparing for your first telehealth therapy session, including completing your paperwork, setting up your technology, and managing any anxiety before your appointment.

Complete Paperwork and Forms

Before your first appointment, make sure you’ve submitted any paperwork or intake forms your clinician has requested. A good rule of thumb is to have these completed at least 24 hours before your session, though some therapists may have different timelines. Completing your forms early ensures your therapist has the information they need to make your first session more productive.

Set Up Your Technology and Space

A smooth technology setup can make a big difference in how comfortable your virtual therapy session feels. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

• Charge your device (or keep your charger close by). You can typically use a computer, tablet, or smartphone for online therapy.

• Download the required platform for your appointment. In my practice, I use SimplePractice, which offers a secure telehealth platform and an easy-to-use mobile app.

• Choose a private space where you can speak openly without being overheard. Let anyone in your home know you’ll be unavailable during your appointment to prevent interruptions.

• Check your internet connection to make sure it’s stable.

• Consider using headphones to reduce distractions and create a more focused, connected experience.

• Adjust your lighting so your face is well-lit, which can help create a more personal feel during the session.

• Gather comfort items such as a drink, blanket, or fidget tool to keep nearby during your appointment.

Coping with First Appointment Nerves

Meeting a therapist—whether in person or virtually—can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time in counseling. It’s completely normal to feel anxious before your session. You’re meeting someone new and preparing to share personal information about your life and emotions.

In therapy, acknowledging feelings of anxiety and uncertainty is part of the process. You don’t have to share everything at once—start with what you feel comfortable discussing.

Here are a few strategies that can help:

• Journal before your appointment: Write down your thoughts, fears, and questions about therapy. This “brain dump” can make it easier to express yourself during the session.

• Create a calming mantra: Remind yourself that this session is simply a first step—you can decide whether the therapist feels like the right fit afterward.

• Focus on your reason for starting therapy: Whether it’s managing anxiety, improving relationships, or addressing burnout, reconnecting with your “why” can help you feel more grounded.

What Happens During Your First Telehealth Therapy Session?

Your first telehealth therapy appointment will likely follow a structure similar to an in-person session. In the beginning, there will be introductions and a review of therapy policies—such as attendance expectations, cancellation fees, and confidentiality. Most therapists, including myself, have intake questionnaires that you complete before your first session. Your therapist may ask more in-depth questions based on the information you shared in those forms.

Some examples of first-session questions include:

• How long have you been taking [specific medication]?

• What is your relationship like with your parents, siblings, partner, or other significant people in your life?

• How long have you experienced [specific symptom]? Has it changed in severity? What was happening in your life when you first noticed it increasing?

In my view, the first appointment is about getting to know each other and beginning to build a therapeutic relationship. Many people worry that it’s harder to establish rapport virtually, but in my experience providing counseling—meaningful connections are absolutely possible through telehealth. Clients often tell me they feel safe, heard, and comfortable working toward their therapy goals in a virtual setting.

Toward the end of the first appointment, I like to check in about how comfortable you feel with me so far. If you ever feel like the match isn’t right, I want you to know it’s okay to speak up—I can help connect you with a therapist who might be a better fit.

We’ll also discuss your goals for therapy and what you hope to gain from the process. I’ll explore some of the barriers and frustrations that brought you to counseling. In the next session, I typically use a visual goal-setting activity that helps clarify your priorities and creates a treatment plan roadmap—so you have a clear picture of how we’ll work toward improving your mental health, reducing anxiety, and supporting your overall well-being.

What to Expect After Your First Session

At the end of your first session, you’ll usually schedule your next appointment. In my practice, I often reserve a regular day and time for each client so we can meet consistently—whether that’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly. For example, a client’s standing appointment might be Mondays at 12 PM each week. This consistency helps create a routine for therapy, and ensures you always know when your next counseling session will be—unless we’ve discussed rescheduling or canceling in advance.

Your therapist may also give you a preview of what to expect in your next session. For example, I let clients know we’ll explore their goals in more detail using my visual goal-setting activity, and I’ll ask them to reflect on what life might look like once those goals are met.

After your first session, you may feel a sense of relief—thinking, “Wow, this feels like a great fit, and I’m hopeful about moving forward.” Or you might feel uncertain, thinking, “I’m not sure I was heard or understood.” Both reactions are normal.

If you feel the second way, it’s worth reflecting on whether the disconnect is about the therapeutic relationship or the telehealth format. If it’s about the fit with the therapist, you can absolutely let them know you plan to seek counseling elsewhere. You never have to stay in treatment with a therapist who doesn’t feel like the right match for your mental health needs—especially if you feel unheard, misunderstood, or uncomfortable.

If your concerns are about the telehealth therapy format itself, consider discussing the barriers you’re experiencing with your therapist. They may have solutions—such as offering in-person sessions, walk-and-talk therapy, or adjusting the structure of your virtual sessions. Therapists often maintain referral lists and can connect you with providers who offer in-person counseling. This way, you can find a therapy approach that feels right for you while still getting the mental health support you’re seeking.

Common Questions About Telehealth

Below are some of the most frequent questions I get asked about Telehealth, as a therapist who currently provides telehealth:

• Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person counseling?
  Yes. Telehealth therapy has been helpful for many people in managing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety treatment, depression, ADHD, and stress management. The most important factor is finding a therapist you feel comfortable with, whether sessions are virtual or in person.

• Is telehealth therapy confidential and secure?
  Yes. Licensed therapists follow the same HIPAA privacy laws in virtual sessions as they do in an office. Platforms like SimplePractice offer encrypted, secure connections to protect your privacy.

• Will my insurance cover telehealth counseling in Michigan?
  Most insurance plans—including those used for counseling in Jackson Michigan—cover telehealth therapy sessions. Coverage may vary, so it’s always a good idea to confirm with your insurance provider.

• What if I’m not tech-savvy?
  You don’t need to be a technology expert to take part in virtual therapy. Most telehealth platforms are simple to use and only take a few clicks to join your session. Your therapist is familiar with using these platforms regularly and can guide you through the process or troubleshoot with you if you’re unsure.

• Can I switch to in-person therapy later?
  If your therapist offers both formats, you can often transition from telehealth to in-person sessions. If your current therapist only offers virtual care, they may be able to refer you to an in-person provider nearby.

• Is telehealth right for me if I get easily distracted?
  It can be—especially if you prepare your space to minimize distractions. Using headphones, choosing a private room, and having a stable internet connection can make virtual therapy feel more engaging.

Why Choose a Local Jackson, MI Telehealth Therapist?

If you live in or are from Jackson, MI, it can be helpful to work with a therapist—even via telehealth therapy—who is familiar with the local area. Having a therapist who understands the community culture can provide insight into potential barriers you may face in reaching your goals. It can also strengthen the therapeutic relationship when your clinician is aware of local factors—whether environmental, economic, or political—that may affect your mental health.

I grew up in a small town in southwest Michigan, so I understand the unique strengths and challenges that can come with living in a smaller community. At the same time, I’ve had experience providing mental health counseling in larger metro areas, including the Detroit suburbs and Ann Arbor. This range of experience helps me bring a well-rounded perspective to therapy in Jackson MI—combining an understanding of small-town culture with insight into the resources, opportunities, and stressors found in bigger cities.

How to Get Started with Telehealth Therapy in Jackson, MI

If you’re looking for therapy in Jackson, MI and are considering telehealth counseling, I invite you to explore the About Me section of my website to see if we might be a good fit. You can also visit my FAQ & Rates page to learn more about my services and see if I accept your insurance. When you’re ready, simply complete my Contact Form to set up a free consultation call or schedule your first appointment. Let’s work together to help you feel more in control, supported, and confident in your mental health journey.