What to Expect in Your First Appointment with Headlight

Preparing for Your First Visit

The days leading up to your appointment may bring feelings of uncertainty or anticipation. That’s completely normal. One way to ease your mind is by learning more about the kind of care you’re scheduled to receive. For example:

• Therapy appointments focus on exploring your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe space.

• Medication management involves working with a psychiatric provider who can assess symptoms, review history, and prescribe or adjust medications.

• Spravato® (esketamine) is a prescription nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, administered in-office under medical supervision. Your first visit will include medical screening and a clear explanation of what to expect in your sessions.

Regardless of the service, it helps to jot down your thoughts ahead of time: what you’re feeling, what you hope to gain, and any questions or concerns. This not only gives your provider insight but also helps anchor you in your purpose for showing up.

What to Expect in In‑Person vs. Virtual Appointments

Whether you’re joining us in one of our clinic spaces or logging in from home, we want you to feel prepared and supported. Here’s what to expect based on the type of appointment you scheduled:

If You’re Coming In Person

• Plan to Arrive Early – Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to complete any last-minute paperwork and get settled.

• A Calm, Confidential Setting – Our clinics are designed to be private, welcoming, and judgment-free. Whether you’re meeting with a therapist, a psychiatric provider, or for Spravato® treatment, your comfort is a priority.

• Spravato® Sessions – If you’re beginning Spravato®, plan for a longer appointment (usually about two hours). You’ll be monitored in a quiet room by clinical staff for the duration of your treatment. We’ll review safety protocols and help you prepare ahead of time.

If You Scheduled a Virtual Appointment

• Log In Early – Give yourself 5–10 minutes before the scheduled time to log in, test your audio/video, and get situated. We’ll send you a secure link ahead of time.

• Find a Private, Quiet Space – Choose a spot where you can speak freely without interruptions. Headphones can help keep things private and focused.

• Be Prepared with Info – Just like with in-person visits, have your ID, insurance info, and any medications handy in case your provider needs them.

• Same High-Quality Care – Your virtual visit is just as personal and effective as meeting face-to-face. Your provider will guide the session, answer questions, and create a safe space to talk—just on screen instead of across the room.

No matter how you’re meeting with us, you can expect compassionate, personalized care that centers around your goals.

What Happens During the Appointment

No matter what kind of service you’re accessing, your first appointment is a conversation — not a test. You’ll be asked open-ended questions like:

• “What brings you in today?”

• “What have you tried before?”

• “How are you feeling lately?”

There are no right or wrong answers. You’re encouraged to speak as openly or as cautiously as you need to. Some people share their entire story. Others take it one sentence at a time. Either way is fine.

If you’re beginning therapy, the session may feel more exploratory. If you’re seeing a psychiatric provider, they may focus on clinical history, symptoms, and how medication might help. If you’re starting Spravato®, you’ll learn about safety protocols, side effects, and how to prepare for your first administration day.

It’s Okay to Feel

Sometimes, the act of showing up can stir up unexpected feelings. That’s not just okay — it’s part of the process. Whether you’re discussing current struggles or touching on painful experiences from the past, you’re in a space that allows for whatever emotions come up. Crying, silence, laughter, or anger — they’re all normal reactions.

It’s also okay if you don’t know how to describe what you’re feeling. We’ll meet you where you are.

Planning What Comes Next

As your appointment wraps up, your provider will talk with you about next steps. Depending on your needs, this may include:

• A therapy schedule (weekly, biweekly, etc.)

• A medication plan, with prescriptions and follow-up visits

• Consideration of Spravato® treatment or other advanced therapies

• Lab work or referrals (if needed)

• Short- and long-term goals

Don’t feel like you have to figure everything out right away. Mental health care is a journey — and your first visit is just the beginning. Be honest about what you’re ready for, what you’re unsure about, and what feels too overwhelming right now.

After the Appointment

Take a moment. Breathe. You did something important — and you did it for yourself.

If the appointment left you feeling hopeful, that’s great. If it felt a little awkward or uncertain, that’s normal too. Sometimes it takes more than one visit to feel a connection. If you’re unsure whether the provider is a good fit, give it another session or two. And if it’s still not working, you have every right to ask for someone new. You deserve to feel safe and supported.

Need to Reschedule?

Life happens. If, for any reason, you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please contact us at (866) 657‑6592 at least 24 hours in advance to avoid any cancellation fees. We’re happy to help you find another time that works.

You’re Not Alone — We’re Here to Help

At Headlight, we believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, personalized mental health care. Whether you’re exploring therapy, medication, or Spravato®, we’re here to walk with you — at your pace, in your way.

Have questions? Not sure where to start? Our care team is just a phone call away. Reach out today at 800‑930‑0803 or visit headlighthealth.com to schedule your first appointment.