What Can I Expect During My First Online Counseling/Telemental Health Session?

What Will Happen When I Login for My Therapy Appointment?

Attending sessions has been made even easier through the use of Online Counseling! By having your session online, you have greater flexibility with scheduling, and CCS even has your paperwork online giving you more time to focus on your appointment. Through the use of a secure portal, you can log on and instantly be connected with your therapist.

All of our contracted, licensed therapists use a secure platform for your sessions. Your session will not only be simple and convenient, it will also be confidential and private.

When calling to schedule your first appointment you will be set a link and instructions on how to log on for your appointment. It can be helpful to sign in early and experiment with the platform so that you are familiar with it before your scheduled appointment. You can even run a test to make sure your equipment is working correctly. By preparing ahead of time you can set yourself up for a successful first online appointment.

Online Counseling Specifics

Is seeing a therapist online as beneficial as seeing a therapist in person? Most will answer with a resounding yes. Many individuals report that they find it even more helpful than face to face counseling. Some of the many benefits of online counseling include; flexibility in scheduling, choice of settings (as long as you are in a confidential location), no travel time and so much more. All of these benefits assist you in feeling relaxed and comfortable during your session, which will in turn help you to open up and use therapy to its fullest.

Completing Paperwork for Your Online Appointments

CCS makes it simple and quick to complete all of the paperwork needed for your first session. Documents can be completed electronically through a secure, easy to use online platform. This HIPAA compliant portal can even be used through your phone!

Along with the link for your session, the paperwork will be sent to you by our wonderful Scheduling Team when you first schedule your appointment. You can also access these documents by going to carolinacounselingservices.com and looking under the Client Forms tab.

We ask that you complete all the necessary paperwork 24 hours prior to your scheduled session. This allows your new therapist time to review your information to provide you with the best quality of care.

Making the Most Out of Your Online Sessions

Start by selecting a quiet, comfortable and most importantly secure location for your session. As long as you are in the same State as your therapist you can be anywhere you feel comfortable! You can be in your home, your office, even your car (as long as it’s parked and secure). If you have privacy and feel that you can speak freely you have found your spot. Also, having a reliable internet connection is imperative. You want to be able to clearly see and hear your therapist, they also need to be able to do the same. Minimizing interruptions, particularly those due to technology issues, is essential.

Sessions are most beneficial when we are comfortable. Lighting also plays a role in feeling comfortable, though be sure that the lighting is not so low that your therapist cannot clearly see you. Non-verbal communication and body language are essential factors as well.

Why Choose CCS?

When you are with a therapist you feel comfortable with the most beneficial work can be done. Everyone is different, feeling that your therapist is a good fit for you is essential. You will not be expected to stay with a therapist who is not the right fit for you. If after the session, you and/or the therapist don’t think that you are a match they may suggest another qualified counselor at CCS who might be a better choice. Another possibility is for your therapist to make a referral to another practice that would better address your needs.

At Carolina Counseling Services, we are always looking to make sure that we are the right match for your unique needs. It is important to us that you get what you come here for. Moreover, at Carolina Counseling Services – Pinehurst, NC, all our contracted therapists are focused on you, making your wellness our top priority.

We understand how stressful your first visit to a counselor/therapist may be. Our goal is to provide you with all the information and guidance you need to help you feel as welcome as possible.

We hope this brief introduction of what to expect has helped put you at ease. See you soon!