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What Happens During Online Therapy?
Knowing What to Expect Can Make the First Step Easier
Starting therapy can feel like a big decision, particularly if you've never spoken to a therapist before.
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One of the most common questions we hear is:
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"What actually happens during an online therapy session?"
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The simple answer is that there are no surprises.
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Online therapy is a confidential conversation designed to help you better understand what's happening, explore the challenges you're facing and work towards meaningful, lasting change.
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At Horizon Connect, we'll guide you through every stage of the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Before Your First Appointment
Before your first session, we'll help match you with a therapist whose experience, approach and availability suit your needs.
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Once your appointment is arranged, your therapist will provide details about:
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The secure video platform.
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How to join the session.
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What you'll need.
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Any information to complete beforehand.
All you need is:
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A reliable internet connection.
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A computer, tablet or smartphone.
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A quiet, private space where you feel comfortable talking.
Your First Session
Your first appointment is about getting to know each other.
Your therapist will usually explore:
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What has brought you to therapy.
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How your difficulties are affecting your life.
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What you hope to achieve.
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Any previous experience of therapy.
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Any questions or concerns you may have.
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There is no pressure to share everything immediately.
Therapy develops at a pace that feels comfortable and appropriate for you.
What Happens After the First Session?
Together, you and your therapist will decide how best to move forward.
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This may include:
Agreeing your goals.
Planning future appointments.
Reviewing progress as therapy develops.
Discussing the most appropriate therapeutic approach.
Therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist will regularly check that the work continues to meet your needs.
What Will We Talk About?
Every person comes to therapy for different reasons.
You may want to explore:
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Anxiety.
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Low mood.
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Stress.
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Burnout.
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Relationships.
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Trauma.
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Confidence.
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ADHD.
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Autism.
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OCD.
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Health anxiety.
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Bereavement.
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Life changes.
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Your therapist will tailor sessions around your goals rather than following a rigid script.
Is Online Therapy Confidential?
Yes.
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Confidentiality is a fundamental part of therapy.
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Sessions are delivered using secure video platforms, and your personal information is handled in accordance with professional and legal standards.
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Your therapist will explain confidentiality, including the rare situations where they may have a legal or ethical duty to share information to help keep someone safe.
Tips for Getting the Most from Online Therapy
Many clients find it helpful to:
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Choose a quiet, private space.
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Silence phone notifications.
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Use headphones if possible.
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Allow a few minutes before and after the session.
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Keep a notebook nearby if you'd like to record reflections or ideas.
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Be open and honest about how you're feeling, even if you're unsure where to begin.
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Remember, there is no "right" way to do therapy. Your therapist will work with you at a pace that feels comfortable.
Why Choose Horizon Connect?
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming.
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That's why we don't simply ask you to search through hundreds of therapist profiles.
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Instead, we take time to understand your situation before recommending a therapist whose experience, approach and personality are well suited to your needs.
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Our aim is to make beginning therapy feel straightforward, supportive and reassuring.
Our Therapist Matching Process
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Step 1
Tell us about what's been happening.
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Step 3
We'll recommend a therapist who matches your needs.
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Step 3
Arrange your first online appointment.
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Step 4
Begin moving forward with professional support.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Services
Online Counselling
Online Depression Therapy
Online CBT
ADHD Online Therapy
Online Anxiety Therapy
Relationship Therapy Online
Why Clients Choose Horizon Connect
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We match you with a therapist rather than expecting you to search through hundreds of profiles.
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Experienced, carefully selected therapists.
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Support across Devon and Cornwall.
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Online and face-to-face options.
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Fast access where possible.
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Personal guidance from first enquiry.
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Therapy tailored to your needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Important Information – If You Need Urgent Help
Horizon Connect provides planned therapy appointments and is not an emergency or crisis mental health service.
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If you feel that you are at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, believe you cannot keep yourself safe, or are experiencing a mental health emergency, do not wait for a therapy appointment.
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Please seek immediate help by:
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Calling 999 if there is an immediate risk to life or a medical emergency.
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Attending your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department.
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Contacting your GP or your local NHS Mental Health Crisis Team or call 111 if you need urgent mental health support.
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If your situation is not an emergency but you would like professional therapeutic support, Horizon Connect is here to help. We'll take the time to understand your needs and help match you with an experienced therapist who is right for you.