How to Prepare for Your First Visit

Patients Reviews

What to Bring to Your First Visit

Being prepared for your first visit helps us make the most of our time together — and helps your provider get to know you more quickly.


Don’t worry if you can’t gather everything on this list. Just bring what you can, and we’ll work through the rest together.

Identification and Insurance


– A valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
– Your insurance card (if applicable)
– Any referral or authorization paperwork from your primary care provider, if required by your plan


Your Medication Information


– A list of all current medications — including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements
– Dosages and how often you take each one
– A list of any medications you’ve tried in the past for mental health, and whether they helped, didn’t help, or caused side effects — this is
incredibly valuable information for your provider 


Your Medical Records (If Available)


– Any recent lab results (such as bloodwork or thyroid tests)
– Records or discharge summaries from previous psychiatric hospitalizations or treatment programs
– Notes or records from previous therapists, psychiatrists, or counselors
– Don’t worry if you don’t have these — your provider can request them with your permission


Your Personal Notes


Sometimes it’s hard to remember everything in the moment, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Consider jotting down a few
things beforehand:
– What symptoms are bothering you the most right now
– When your symptoms started and what may have triggered them
– How your symptoms are affecting your daily life — work, school, relationships, sleep, appetite
– Questions you’d like to ask your provider
– What your goals are — what does feeling better look like for you? 


Emergency Contacts and Support People


– The name and phone number of an emergency contact
– If you’d like a trusted family member or friend to join part of your visit, they are welcome

 

A Few Helpful Reminders


– There are no wrong answers. This visit is about getting to know you, not testing you.
– It’s okay to say “I don’t know” or “I’m not ready to talk about that yet.”
– Arrive a few minutes early to complete any intake paperwork or complete it online beforehand
– Bring something comforting if it helps you feel at ease — a water bottle, a fidget, or even a favorite hoodie. Your comfort matters to
us.

We're glad you're here, and we look forward
to meeting you