What to expect during your first online Sex Therapy session in Philadelphia, PA
Alright, you’ve done it. You’ve decided to check out sex therapy and you’re feeling lots of things.
You might be excited to start the process, but nervous because you’re not sure what to expect. Maybe you want to feel more prepared going in to make sure you’re getting the most out of this process. There are some things you can do to help prepare for online therapy.
Here are 6 common things you can expect before, during, and after your first online sex therapy session in Philadelphia, PA:
#1: What happens after I pick an online sex therapist and have scheduled a session with them?
Alright! You scheduled your first online sex therapy session! Now’s the time for some paperwork. Chances are good your therapist uses some type of electronic health record. This is where they keep consent forms, HIPAA acknowledgments, emergency contact and payment info, all your notes, and more in a secure place. After you schedule your session, they’ll add you into the system and electronically send the forms necessary to complete before your first session. You’ll typically do this paperwork through the online portal, which is also where you’ll likely access online sex therapy sessions. Most therapists ask that you complete the paperwork and set up your account at least 24 hours before your initial session. This gives them time to review the paperwork and help with any troubleshooting that’s needed. That way, you can just click the link at the time of your session and get started.
#2: What do I need to do to prepare for my first online sex therapy session?
Since you won’t be meeting in an office, it’s important to plan to be in a quiet, private space at the time of your online sex therapy session. Make sure there’s adequate lighting and your device is on a stable surface. Check out 5 Tips to Optimize Online Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, PA for some more helpful tips on how to prepare for online therapy sessions. As far as clinically, you can prepare as much or as little as you’d like. Some find it helpful to jot down a few main points they want to start with, while others just talk as they go. Do whatever prep feels right and try not to stress too much, as your therapist will help guide you through the process.
#3: What happens in the first online sex therapy session?
You FINALLY get to chat with your sex therapist about what’s been going on! Every therapist has a different style for this. The initial session may range from targeted questions about your history, presenting problems, and stressors, to being open-ended and just letting you share what’s on your mind. No matter the therapist’s style, be prepared for them to ask things like what type of problem(s) you’re experiencing, how long they’ve been going on, and what areas of your life are being impacted. Pro tip- it’s okay to feel a little uncomfortable at first. This is usual and pretty expected. A relative stranger is asking you intimate details about your life, which is not a natural occurrence for most of us. Just settle in, be present, and communicate. Remember, sex therapy is a process and the more you get to know your sex therapist, the easier it will be to open up.
#4: Will I have stuff to work on in-between online sex therapy sessions?
That’s up to you. Some therapists like to give handouts, tasks, or have you set small goals each week so you have something to work on between sessions. But even if they don’t, it’s helpful to continue the work outside the therapy room. Typically, you’ll only spend an hour with your sex therapist once a week, or every other week. 90% of their value to you is what you take from the session and use in the real world. Waiting to do the work until you’re in session will slow you down and make the process more difficult. The more you utilize the skills you’re learning in real life, the more you’ll benefit, and the faster you’ll see progress.
#5: When will I know when my next online sex therapy session is?
This is typically scheduled at the end of the session so when you leave, you’ll know when your next appointment is. Some sex therapists schedule on a first-come-first-serve basis, and some give you a standing appointment so it’s the same time each week. Ask your therapist how they schedule online sessions so you know what to expect each week. Once the next session is scheduled, write this down or put a reminder in your phone since you won’t get a tangible reminder card. Most electronic health records can send automated reminders before the next appointment, so ask your sex therapist if this is something they can enable for you.
#6: What if, after the first online session, I’m not sure if the sex therapist is a good match for me?
It can take some time to get to know and feel fully comfortable with a new sex therapist. BUT if after the first session you feel it really isn’t a fit, talk with your therapist about it. Don’t worry about hurting their feelings. They know the therapeutic relationship is the most important predictor of positive outcomes (i.e. they know if you’re not comfortable with them, this isn’t going to work). And they may be able to shift whatever wasn’t working for you in your sessions, allowing you to feel more comfortable. At the end of the day, they want to set you up for success and help you get results, even if it’s not with them. So, if you feel it’s not a good fit, speak up. They can help you navigate the process and get set up with someone who’s a better fit.
Free sex therapy intro call in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
I hope this helps you feel more prepared for your first online sex therapy session in Philadelphia, PA. For more FAQs about sex therapy (and therapy in general) click here. If you have other questions about finding the right sex therapist or how to prep for that first online session click here to schedule a free 15 min phone chat. I’d love to hear your thoughts and help you navigate the process.
If you’re looking for individual sex therapy in Philadelphia or couples therapy in Philadelphia, click these links to learn more about how I can help.
My specialties include low desire, differential desires, low libido, sexual communication, managing sexual stress and pressure, and increasing connection.
