Virtual Therapy 101: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started
Thinking about trying virtual therapy but not sure where to start? You're not alone. Taking that first step toward better mental health can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to telehealth. The good news is that virtual therapy gives you all the benefits of traditional therapy with some pretty awesome perks thrown in.
At Valera Health, we’re all about making mental healthcare easy to access, personalized to your needs, and super convenient. And if you're wondering whether online therapy actually works, it absolutely does! Research shows it's just as effective as in-person sessions. That connection between you and your provider is just as powerful virtually, but without the hassle of commuting, rigid scheduling, or being limited to therapists in your immediate area.
Why Choose Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy removes some of the biggest hurdles that keep people from getting mental health support. With Valera Health's online sessions, you can log in from wherever you're most comfortable, whether that's your couch in pajamas or during your lunch break. The flexibility means you can find times that actually work for you—early mornings, evenings, or weekends. No commuting means more time for your life, making it easier to stick with therapy even with a packed schedule, family responsibilities, or if you live in an area with limited mental health resources.
Insurance Coverage
At Valera Health, we work with most major insurance providers to make therapy accessible and affordable. Our network includes Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare/Optum, and many others.
Not sure if your plan is covered? Our care team can verify your benefits before you get started, so you know exactly what to expect.
Finding the Right Provider
The relationship between you and your therapist can make or break your experience. At Valera, we don't just randomly assign providers. We take the time to get to know you, hear your story, and understand what you're looking for in therapy.
Our providers come from all walks of life and bring their own unique perspectives to their work. This diversity means we're much more likely to find someone who really "gets" you and your situation. To make the process smoother, we'll connect you with a Health Connector — your personal guide who helps you find a therapist you click with. Many of our patients tell us this personalized matching was exactly what they needed after struggling to find the right fit elsewhere.
Getting Started
Starting therapy with Valera is straightforward. First, you'll fill out a quick form telling us a bit about what's going on and what you're hoping to get out of therapy. Nothing complicated — just enough for us to understand how we can help.
Next, you’ll pick your appointment time. Our booking system makes it easy to find a slot that works for you, whether during your lunch break or after the kids are in bed. Once that's set, you'll meet virtually with your provider to start mapping out a plan tailored just for you.
Your First Session
Feeling nervous about your first session? Totally normal! Here's what to expect: your provider will kick things off by introducing themselves and giving you the rundown on how everything works. They'll ask about what's brought you to therapy and what you're hoping to get out of it.
Think of it as a conversation where you get to talk about yourself (when does that ever happen?). Your provider will give you plenty of time to ask questions and get a feel for the whole virtual therapy thing. Trust us — that initial anxiety usually melts away pretty quickly once you start chatting with your provider in the comfort of your own space.
Care Options
Valera Health offers different types of virtual mental health support depending on what you need. Our individual therapy connects you one-on-one with a therapist focused entirely on your situation. For those who benefit from shared experiences, our group therapy brings together people facing similar challenges in a guided, supportive environment.
We also offer psychiatry services with board-certified psychiatrists who can handle medication management if that's part of your plan. Many patients find that a combination works best, creating their own personalized mental health toolkit.
Ready to Begin?
Starting is as simple as:
- Visit valerahealth.com to complete a brief intake form about your needs.
- Choose from available providers and appointment times that work for you.
- Connect with your provider through our secure platform for your first session.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.
