How to prepare for mental health tele-visits

Audience: all

Mental health tele-visits offer a convenient and private way to connect with a mental health professional from your home or another comfortable space. Preparing well can help you get the most from your appointment. This guide explains how to prepare for a tele-visit, what to expect, and when to seek in-person care. You will learn practical steps like setting up a quiet space, checking your technology, and gathering your thoughts before the visit. We also cover important warning signs that need urgent attention. Telemedicine can handle many common mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and stress management, but it may not be suitable for emergencies or complex conditions that require physical exams or immediate intervention. After your visit, following up on care plans and scheduling future appointments can support your mental health journey. This guide helps you feel confident and ready for your mental health tele-visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Feeling like you want to harm yourself or others — seek emergency help immediately.
• Sudden severe mood changes or confusion — contact emergency services or a trusted person right away.
• Inability to perform daily activities or care for yourself — arrange urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate anxiety and depression
• Stress management and coping strategies
• Medication management for stable conditions
• Follow-up visits and therapy sessions
• Psychoeducation and support

What telemedicine cannot do

• Mental health emergencies or crises
• Severe psychosis or hallucinations
• Immediate risk of harm to self or others
• Complex physical exams or tests
• Substance overdose or withdrawal emergencies

What is a Mental Health Tele-Visit?

A mental health tele-visit is a meeting with a mental health professional using video or phone technology. It allows you to talk about your feelings, thoughts, and concerns without traveling to a clinic. These visits often include therapy, counseling, or medication management. Tele-visits can be private, convenient, and flexible, making mental health care more accessible to many people.

How to Prepare for Your Tele-Visit

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What to Expect During the Visit

Your mental health provider will ask about your mood, thoughts, daily activities, and any challenges you face. They may discuss coping strategies or suggest treatments. The visit usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes. You can ask questions and share what matters most to you. The provider will keep your information confidential, except in cases where safety is a concern.

When to Seek In-Person or Emergency Care

Telemedicine is helpful for many mental health needs but is not a replacement for emergency care. Seek immediate help if you or someone else is in danger, such as:

In these cases, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

After Your Tele-Visit: Next Steps

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet location for your tele-visit.
• Test your internet connection and device camera/microphone.
• Charge your device fully before the appointment.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, questions, and concerns.
• Have your medication list handy.
• Familiarize yourself with the telemedicine platform or app.
• Ensure you have contact information for emergency services if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your provider’s treatment plan and advice.
• Take medications as prescribed and report side effects.
• Schedule and attend follow-up appointments.
• Monitor your symptoms and mood regularly.
• Seek help promptly if your condition worsens or you experience red flags.
• Use additional resources like support groups or educational materials as recommended.

FAQs

Can I have a tele-visit if I have never seen this mental health provider before?

Yes, many providers offer initial assessments via telemedicine. Make sure to provide complete information about your history during the visit.

What if my internet connection is poor during the tele-visit?

If video quality is poor, your provider may switch to a phone call. Try to find a spot with better signal or use a wired connection if possible.

Is my information private during a tele-visit?

Yes, providers use secure platforms to protect your privacy. However, avoid sharing sensitive information in public or shared spaces.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person mental health care?

Telemedicine is effective for many situations but not all. Some conditions require physical exams or emergency care that telemedicine cannot provide.

How do I prepare if I feel very anxious about the tele-visit?

Try deep breathing exercises before the visit, write down your thoughts, and remember that your provider is there to help you in a supportive way.

Sources

1. Mental Health and Telehealth — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telehealth for Mental Health — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.
4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Telebehavioral Health — SAMHSA.

This guide provides general information about mental health tele-visits and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health provider or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or emergency.