What is a recommended initial-session practice regarding technology?

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Discussing how technology will be used in the first session is essential. This upfront conversation covers what platform will be used, how sessions will be delivered (video, audio, or other modes), privacy and security measures, consent for electronic communications, and what steps to take if technical issues arise. Reasonable expectations about turnaround times, scheduling, and back-up plans for connectivity help clients feel safe and informed, and they support continuity of care if a problem occurs. It also gives space to address any accessibility needs and to align on emergency procedures and boundaries around confidentiality in digital spaces.

Waiting until later to talk about technology can leave clients uncertain about consent, privacy, and feasibility, which can undermine the therapeutic process from the start. A generic tech brochure may miss specifics relevant to the client’s situation, such as which platform is secure, how data is protected, or what to do in a real-time technical failure. Not discussing technology at all risks confusion and possible disruptions to treatment.

So, the best initial-session practice is to provide information on how technology will be used and how service delivery will work from the outset.