What To Expect During Your First Therapy Session With BetterHelp

If you’ve ever considered trying online therapy but are hesitant because you don’t know what to expect, this post offers a look into what your first teletherapy session with BetterHelp might look like. 

Online therapy has existed in some form since the 1960s, but its popularity rose significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. While on lockdown, many people who weren’t already in therapy found themselves struggling with their mental health. A 2022 World Health Organization report showed a 25% global increase in anxiety and depression during that time, underscoring the need for affordable, accessible mental health care. 

If you’ve ever considered trying online therapy but are hesitant because you don’t know what to expect, this post offers a look into what your first teletherapy session with BetterHelp might be like. 

What is BetterHelp? 

Founded in 2013, BetterHelp is the world’s biggest online therapy platform, serving over five million people in more than 100 countries. The company offers users access to over 30,000 licensed, trained, and vetted therapists from diverse backgrounds and specialties. The platform also allows users to choose how they attend sessions—via live chat, phone call, or video—on a schedule that works for them, which can be helpful for many people, including students, parents, and busy professionals.

Myths and misunderstandings about online therapy 

Misinformation can deter people from seeking therapy when they need it. For example, some assume that online therapy isn’t as effective as in-person treatment. In reality, research repeatedly shows online therapy is effective for many. One UK-based study of 27,500 patients found it to be as effective as in-person therapy for many conditions. Other myths about online treatment include the following:

• Internet-delivered therapy lacks personal connection: Many clients report feeling deeply connected to their therapist online.
• Only tech-savvy people can effectively use virtual therapy: BetterHelp’s interface is designed to be user-friendly.
• Online therapy is more expensive than in-person treatment: In many cases, online therapy is more affordable than traditional options for those without insurance. 

How much is therapy through BetterHelp?

BetterHelp uses a subscription model. Weekly rates typically range from $70 to $100, based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Subscriptions are billed every four weeks, and you can cancel anytime. Financial aid and sliding scale options may be available to those who qualify, and most HSA/FSA plans recognize BetterHelp as a qualified provider.  

Online therapy might not be a good option for specific mental health challenges

While online therapy suits many, it might not be a good option for everyone. Online therapy may not be recommended if you have an immediate crisis or need intensive care. It may not be suitable for those with a severe mental health condition like schizophrenia or psychotic disorders. Bipolar disorder and severe depression may also require in-person care in some cases.

Signing up

After setting up your account, you’ll be matched with a BetterHelp therapist based on your answers to some basic questions about the type of therapy you’re looking for. BetterHelp connects users with therapists specializing in different areas, depending on their needs. For example, some may prefer to speak with a counselor of the same gender, sexual orientation, or race. 

Things to consider beforehand

Before you begin, these reflections may help ensure a good match and set the tone for your first counselling session:

• What are your therapeutic goals?
• What are your expectations for the therapist?
• How do you feel most comfortable communicating?
• What qualities in a therapist are essential to you?
• What are your boundaries around therapy? 

Questions to ask your therapist before your first session 

After you’ve been matched, ask about your therapist’s credentials and background. Ask about what type of therapy they specialize in and their experience working with individuals with similar needs to yours. Additionally, talk to your therapist about what you can expect from a typical session, how they set goals for their clients, and how they will measure your progress. 

Practical tips for smooth therapy sessions

To ensure smooth online therapy sessions, prioritize a reliable internet connection, and invest in a quality webcam and microphone if your device doesn’t have them built in. Find a quiet, safe space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself. Minimize distractions by turning off notifications and letting others in your household know you’ll be unavailable during your session. Have a backup plan for technical difficulties and communicate openly with your therapist about any concerns. 

What the first online therapy session typically looks like

They may also cover logistics like scheduling future sessions and how to contact them. Finally, during this session, you'll typically have the opportunity to discuss your expectations for therapy and ask any questions you may have. 

The importance of rapport with your therapist

A strong therapist-client relationship, also called a therapeutic alliance, is a key factor in successful therapy. According to research by the American Psychological Association (APA), this connection often matters more than the specific therapy method used. Good rapport builds trust, allowing clients to feel comfortable communicating openly. 

A positive relationship with your therapist might increase the likelihood that you’ll:

• Engage with the therapeutic process
• Attend sessions regularly
• Stay motivated to work on your goals
• Speak up when challenges arise

If a mismatch occurs, BetterHelp makes it easy to switch therapists at any point for no additional charge. 

Exploring your mental health challenges

In the first session, your therapist will likely ask about the specific issues or challenges that led you to seek therapy. They’ll likely ask about your symptoms, as well as their severity and duration. They may also ask about how you typically cope with these difficulties now and how you coped with them in the past.

Gathering your background information

You'll probably be asked questions about your history during the first session. These questions might be about your childhood, education, relationships, and living situation. You may be asked about your family and any past experiences with therapy. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing personal information, you can always communicate that to your therapist. However, openness often plays a critical role in effective, individualized care. 

Setting goals  

Some therapists begin outlining goals in the first session. Others wait until rapport is more established. Regardless, therapy tends to be most effective when you know what you’d like to achieve. Consider which areas of life you want to improve. What would treatment success look like? How will you know it’s helping? Having direction can make the process more focused and productive.

What happens next? 

Before ending your first session, your therapist will likely summarize what you discussed, schedule your next session, and explain how to stay in contact. After the session, take some time to reflect. Did you feel heard and supported? Note any questions, topics you want to explore, or points you wish to clarify. This can help you make the most of your future sessions. 

You might also evaluate your comfort level with the therapist, although it can be important to keep in mind that it may take time to become fully comfortable with the therapy process. If you don’t feel a connection with your therapist, BetterHelp allows you to switch to a different mental health professional at any point.