Virtual care
How to prepare for teletherapy
A virtual appointment can make professional care more accessible. A little preparation around privacy, technology and emergencies helps you spend less of the session troubleshooting.
Reviewed November 2026 · 8 min read
The five-point preparation checklist
| What to prepare | What it means | Practical check |
|---|---|---|
| Private space | A place where you can speak without being interrupted | Use headphones if appropriate; avoid a public or shared work network |
| Connection | Stable internet and a charged device | Keep the provider's phone or backup contact method |
| Platform | The provider's approved software and instructions | Test the link, camera and microphone before the session |
| Location | Your physical location at the time of care | Licensing and emergency arrangements can depend on it |
| Safety plan | What to do if connection or safety becomes a problem | Ask for local emergency and crisis procedures before you need them |
Before the first appointment
Ask the practical questions
- Is the provider licensed to work with me in my current location?
- Which platform is used, and what privacy practices apply?
- What happens if video or internet fails?
- How are emergencies handled between appointments?
- Are messages part of care, and what response time should I expect?
- What are the fees, cancellation rules and insurance arrangements?
During the session
Give yourself a usable hour
Put the device at a stable height, keep water nearby and write down two or three topics you want to cover. If privacy is incomplete, tell the provider rather than forcing a conversation you cannot safely have.
Afterward, note any next steps and the agreed way to handle questions or emergencies. If the format does not work for you, discuss in-person or alternative care rather than assuming you failed at therapy.
Common questions
Is teletherapy as private as an office visit?+
Privacy depends on the provider's practices and your environment. Ask about the platform and choose a private space and connection where possible.
Can a therapist work with me while I travel?+
Licensing and service rules can depend on your physical location. Tell the provider before travelling rather than assuming coverage continues.
What if my internet stops during a crisis?+
Use the backup contact method and the provider's emergency instructions. For immediate US crisis support call or text 988; immediate danger requires 911.
Is an app the same as teletherapy?+
Not necessarily. NIMH distinguishes therapist-delivered remote care from apps and web programs that provide information or feedback without a therapist.