This is the very first message I send clients. I put this together with some help from examples from other therapists so feel free to tweak this to make it sound like you!

Sometimes I add a message at the top because I want to acknowledge something specifically that a client mentioned in a message. You’ll notice that their answers to Betterhelp’s intake questions always appear at the top. I may respond to something in those answers. Other times, a client may send a message before I’ve had a chance to send my intake/intro message. In those cases, I also like to acknowledge their message before launching into my “intake” message.

Sometimes clients will not respond to this message prior to the first session. I used to nudge clients to complete it or send reminders. I even encouraged some to cancel the session if they had not completed it. I eased up on that pretty quickly. Instead, I would send a reminder that they could complete the questions prior to the session or we could go over the questions together in the first session. Some people preferred the latter option and it worked fine. They understood it would be like an intake session and that was their choice. Regardless, I always highlight certain things in their responses or ask for clarification around their answers, especially those around safety.

Hi Client Name,

I’m excited to work with you and walk with you on this journey! I am Therapist Name, a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I have worked with individuals and couples seeking counseling for over 9 years, both online and in various face-to-face settings. You can read more about my background, education, experience and counseling approach by clicking on my name above our messages. To help us get started, I’d like some additional information. I mentioned some of this in the informed consent you agreed to but I always remind everyone to be sure.

Your well-being is my number one priority. BetterHelp does not provide me with your personal or billing information that you provided when you signed up for your subscription. In order for me to maintain compliance with my licensing board and ethical code, I am required to gather some basic personal information. I also ask that you provide an emergency contact so that someone can be reached in the event of an emergency.

Your Personal Information

Full Name:

Date of Birth:

Current Home Address:

Phone Number:

Email Address:

I’m responsible for verifying a clients identity when engaging in virtual counseling, so it’s helpful for me to have that on file.