Learn how to get started in online therapy with these easy-to-follow steps
Getting started in online therapy at Calm Waters Counseling is simple.
There is no back and forth of email and playing phone tag with calls.
All you simply need to do is follow these 3 steps to book your consultation and get started…
Step1 | Initial consultation
Free and No Obligation
Scheduling a consultation for an appointment just got a whole lot easier!
On the day and time of your choosing I will contact you for your free 15-minute phone consult to identify if we could be a good fit working together.
Once you have scheduled your consultation you will receive a very brief questionnaire through your email to complete including reasons for seeking therapy, goals you wish to achieve, and information regarding your availability for scheduling. This allows us to make the best use of our time during our call.
Step 2 | Before the first Therapy session
You will be emailed a link to a client portal where you can review all paperwork and complete intake forms.
All forms must be completed 24hrs before the first session.
This is important so I can review paperwork, contact insurance regarding benefits, and be better prepared for our first session. Forms will include consent forms, insurance authorization forms, HIPAA and Privacy Policy, intake, and billing documents.
Step 3 | During the first session
We will meet for about 50-55min where I get to learn about you, review the completed paperwork, discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, and begin identifying treatment goals.
These goals are used as a roadmap for treatment and are an important part of the process.
Also during this time I would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have thought of since our initial consultation.
Please review the Notice of Privacy Practices before your first appointment.
Common Questions
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Therapy is a commitment and investment in yourself. My clients benefit most from weekly sessions and then once goals are beginning to be met will taper down. This is something we discuss in session and develop as a plan with your treatment goals.
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There is no specific timetable for the length of treatment as each person varies on their specific needs. Upon entering therapy a custom-made treatment plan will be developed between the client and therapist. This plan will be reviewed and revised regularly.
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Participation is key. The best results happen when you’re active in the therapy process. Engaging while in session and doing work outside the therapy office.
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The client portal is HIPAA compliant and is the place where all your documents and billing transactions are kept including intake paperwork, billing invoices, secure messages, and other paperwork needed. This is also the place where all video sessions take place for online therapy appointments in Maryland and North Carolina.
To access the portal you will receive an email with a passcode after scheduling a consult. You will receive email notifications once there is a new document added for completion or when an invoice has been created.