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Prepare for your first therapy session

You can begin with a few notes about what has been difficult, what you hope to change, and the questions you want to ask.

Nao Medical offers virtual CBT and DBT across New York. Tell the care team that you are seeking therapy when scheduling through the psychiatry booking system. Confirm the therapist, appointment type and eligibility before your visit.

Tell us you are seeking therapy Booking opens Nao’s psychiatry scheduler. Request CBT or DBT so the team can confirm the right appointment.

Updated October 7, 2026

Before you choose an appointment

Ask whether the appointment is for psychotherapy or medication management. These services can involve different clinicians. Confirm age eligibility, the session format, visit length and the fees for an initial appointment and follow-up. If you want CBT or DBT, say so when you contact the team.

Make a short preparation list

Write down two or three concerns and a few examples of how they affect your routine. Note previous therapy, what felt useful or difficult, and any records you would like to share. Bring your current medication list. You do not need to prepare a perfect account of your life or select a diagnosis yourself.

Set up your virtual visit

Confirm how you will receive the appointment link and whether you need to complete intake forms. Choose a private space and check that your device, microphone and connection work. Ask the team about location requirements, accessibility needs or help with the video platform before the appointment.

Use the first conversation to ask questions

Discuss your goals, the clinician’s experience with your concerns and how the proposed approach works. Ask how you will agree on goals, what practice between sessions might involve and how progress will be reviewed. You can also ask about confidentiality, its limits and how to contact the practice between scheduled visits.

Agree on the next step

Before the visit ends, confirm whether another appointment, records review or a different type of evaluation is recommended. Ask about follow-up frequency, scheduling and cancellation arrangements. If the approach or clinician does not feel like a fit, raise that concern so you can discuss alternatives.

Keep urgent needs separate from routine scheduling

The booking system is for appointments and is not an emergency response service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger or has a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know whether I want CBT or DBT?

No. Describe your concerns, previous care and goals. The team can help confirm an appropriate appointment and discuss the available approaches.

Why does the booking destination say psychiatry?

Nao currently uses its psychiatry scheduler for therapy enquiries. Tell the team you want CBT or DBT so they can confirm the right clinician and visit.

Should I bring old therapy records?

Bring records you have and ask how to share them securely. You can discuss previous treatment even if you do not have every document.

Can I ask about confidentiality before sharing personal details?

Yes. Ask your clinician how information is protected, the limits of confidentiality and how records are used in your care.

Is the first appointment a commitment to a fixed number of sessions?

Ask about the proposed plan and follow-up arrangements. Session frequency and duration depend on your needs and the clinician’s assessment.

What if I need help using the video link?

Contact the care team before the appointment and confirm the setup instructions. Tell them about any accessibility or connection concerns.

Related guides

Explore therapy options

Further reading

Arrange your therapy appointment

Confirm the clinician, eligibility, appointment type and fees before your visit.