Telehealth/Online Therapy Preparation Guide

Important: A completed Informed Consent for Telehealth form is required before your first telehealth session. This form is typically completed in the client portal. Please call/email/text if you have any questions.

How to Join Your Telehealth Session

Telehealth sessions take place through the TherapyAppointment.com client portal. For complete instructions, please click here.

If we experience persistent video or audio issues, we’ll switch to our backup platform called Sessions. You can find my waiting room on Sessions here:
https://sessions.psychologytoday.com/drvaldes

(Much of the information below is adapted from Person-Centered Tech’s Client Setup Helper Page.)

Creating a Confidential Space

Your comfort and privacy are crucial for effective online therapy. Consider the following:

• Privacy:

  • Can you lock the door?

  • If not, will others respect a “do not disturb” request?

• Noise:

  • Do others outside the room hear you talking?

  • Use a fan or other background noise (ideally placed outside your door) to create “white noise.”

  • Consider using headphones or earbuds so my voice is only audible to you.

• Backup Options. If you can’t find an ideal private area, here are some less-than-perfect alternatives. Be sure you’re still comfortable:

  • Laundry Room

  • Walk-In Closet

  • Basement

  • Attic

  • As a last resort: your car, parked in a safe, private spot (private = safe and secure, not isolated).

Setting Up Your Technology

• Choose Your Device:

  • A laptop or desktop with a larger screen is ideal.

  • If using a tablet or phone, prop up your device so the camera is stable and at eye level.

• Camera & Lighting:

  • Position your camera at eye level (use books or a stand if needed).

  • Ensure you have good front lighting and avoid bright light sources directly behind you.

• Optimize Your Internet Connection:

  • If possible, move closer to your Wi-Fi router or use a wired Ethernet cable.

  • Close or pause any programs and browser tabs that use extra bandwidth (e.g., streaming services, backup programs). Read more here about improving your connection.

What If Video or Audio Issues Arise?

While TherapyAppointment.com is our primary telehealth platform, occasional tech hiccups can happen.

• If problems persist during a session, we can switch to our backup platform, Sessions.

• My “waiting room” on Sessions is available here: https://sessions.psychologytoday.com/drvaldes

Questions or Concerns?

If you have any questions about setting up your space or technology, feel free to reach out. I look forward to working with you in your telehealth sessions!

Adapted from Person-Centered Tech’s Client Setup Helper Page