Deciding to take action to improve your mental health is a significant milestone that you should be proud of. For many people, taking the first step means talking to a mental health care professional, such as a licensed counselor.
Counseling helps people with mental health distress and condition symptoms, such as depressive or anxiety disorders, work through their specific challenges and develop coping mechanisms that will help for years to come.
While counseling can be held in person, it’s becoming more common to seek online counseling services. They provide flexibility for scheduling and allow you to be in an environment where you’re comfortable, often leading to deeper engagement in the sessions.
If you’re unsure about what to expect from starting online outpatient counseling services, we’re here to lay out the steps for you. We’ll also discuss how Guidelight Health can help when support beyond online counseling is needed.
Please keep in mind that the steps may vary from one counseling provider to another.
Step 1: Finding and contacting a counselor’s practice
If you’re reading this article, then you’ve probably already started your research on virtual counseling services. When you’re searching for a counselor, you can narrow your queries by:
- Location (online counselors have to be licensed in your state)
- Insurance coverage
- Specific concern
When you find a counselor that you want to look into, you can reach out to them either through their site or by calling or emailing them directly. They may have a form that needs to be filled out or an online platform that you need to sign up for. They’ll ask for your basic contact information and insurance information as well as any relevant information, such as your specific mental health challenges and counselor preferences.
Step 2: Insurance verification
Insurance coverage plays a significant role in choosing or starting a mental health service. Many people (understandably) don’t want to risk a high copay or not having their services covered. That’s why insurance verification is typically completed before you even book your first appointment.
After your initial contact, the counseling office will often reach out to your insurance provider to determine how much coverage you have or potential copay. They’ll call you with the resulting information so that you can determine whether or not you want to continue with them.
You can also ask about potential payment plans or self-pay options.
Step 3: Matching with a counselor who aligns with your needs
If you’re trying to connect with a counseling practice, it’s likely that there are multiple counselors available. Once your insurance is verified, the practice will determine which counselor they believe best fits your needs. Factors that go into consideration include availability, age group and specialty. Your personal preferences are also put into the equation, such as the gender or religion of your counselor.
Once you’re matched with a counselor, you’ll be contacted by the practice to set up an appointment. They may offer free introductory sessions to see if the counselor is the right fit for you.
If you don’t think a counselor is the right choice to help your mental health journey, you can let the practice know that you would like to be rematched.
Step 4: Preparing for your first session
Your first session with an online counselor will likely center on questions about your current and past mental health challenges, as well as your goals for counseling.
When you’re getting ready for your first online counseling session, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Set up your mobile device in a safe, private area
- Check your Wi-Fi connection and your device’s battery level
- Bring a notebook to take notes
Your counselor won’t pressure you to talk about anything you’re not comfortable with. Go in with an open mind. There’s strength in your vulnerability.
Guidelight can provide higher levels of support when online counseling services may not be enough
Online counseling services are an effective short-term treatment option for people who have specific challenges, such as struggling with a big life change. But if you’re experiencing overwhelming mental health distress that’s impacting your overall quality of life, Guidelight’s programs can provide you with the high level of support you need:
With a combination of individual and group therapy sessions, we can help you manage your symptoms and learn long-term coping mechanisms that can help you along your mental health journey. Our PHP program also includes medication management.
Everyone has a seat at Guidelight. Contact our team online or call us today for more information about our programs or to schedule an initial evaluation.