What to Expect from Your First Telemedicine Visit for Depression

If you suspect that you’re struggling with depression, you might be experiencing symptoms like ongoing “meh” feelings, problems with sleep, weight fluctuations, social withdrawal, episodes of extreme sadness, and difficulty experiencing joy. Seven percent of the United States population is battling depression, so know that you’re not alone.

Since depression can have serious health implications, it’s important to seek professional help, and thankfully, due to modern technology, telemedicine — or telehealth — is an available option. 

At her practice located in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Amanda Kleinman offers telemedicine to people living in Illinois as an option for treating and managing depression. Here’s how you can be ready for your telemedicine experience and what you can expect from your very first visit with her.

How to prepare for a telemedicine visit

Before your first visit, make sure and get all the technology details so you can have the appropriate software downloaded and ready. You also need to have a functioning webcam and microphone, high-speed internet, and a quiet room free of distractions where you can carry out your appointment. 

In addition, you may want to have a list of notes or questions prepared ahead of time so you can make sure to cover everything that needs to be addressed.

What to expect during your telemedicine visit

During your initial visit, Dr. Kleinman reviews both your symptoms and your medical and mental health history. She also discusses with you your living situation, medications, emotions, thoughts, and behavior patterns. 

If you are diagnosed with depression, Dr. Kleinman works with you on coming up with a treatment plan that works best for you. This treatment plan would include psychotherapy and possibly medication management. 

Dr. Kleinman might suggest psychodynamic psychotherapy, which can help you explore deeper meaning behind patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting. Dr. Kleinman may also suggest transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP), which is extremely beneficial if you experience a lot of depressive episodes, are struggling with work and relationships, or have recurrent suicidal thoughts.

Whatever you and Dr. Kleinman decide works best for you and your depression symptoms, Dr. Kleinman will work with you to monitor your symptoms and make adjustments to your care so that you can make steady progress over time.

If you’re struggling with depression and would like to have a telemedicine appointment from the convenience of your office or home, contact Dr. Kleinman to schedule a telehealth visit. You can do this by giving her a call or by using the online booking tool today.