A consultation is a scheduled meeting arranged between you and your provider to determine "fit" for both you and your provider. It is important that you feel comfortable with your provider and that the treatment you seek is supported by your mental health provider. Results in treatment are highly dependent on "fit" as well as proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment (evidence-based).
During your consultation, the provider will introduce themselves and provide education regarding their qualifications, differences in types of providers, how therapy "works" regarding treatment planning and goals, and what to expect in your sessions, as well as the expected duration of treatment. This will help you feel comfortable about how to engage in treatment and how to advocate for your needs successfully.
The provider will ask you about why you are seeking treatment and what outcomes you are seeking in treatment. Results greatly depend on your level of engagement with therapy and the "work" of therapy that occurs outside of the 45-minute sessions. If you and the therapist feel that the "fit" are aligned, the provider will assist you with setting up your first appointment and how to utilize telehealth and the online payment system.