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 Phone
You'll need the SimplePractice app. Download it ahead of time:
If Using a Tablet
You can use the app or a browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge).
If Using a Computer
Use a current browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge).
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
You'll Receive a Link
An email with a link to join will arrive before your appointment.
How to Join
Click the link at your appointment time. It will open in the app or your browser, depending on your device. 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 (60 minutes)
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.