Welcome to your telehealth consultation! Whether this is your first time or you have used telehealth before, we want to make sure you have the best experience possible. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your telehealth appointment with your child and adolescent psychiatrist.

Before the Appointment: Preparation Tips

1. Check Your Technology:
   • Make sure you have a reliable internet connection. If you are concerned about how your wifi will lose reception, think about a backup option like a hotspot if needed.
   • Test your device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) to ensure it’s working properly.
   • Check that your camera and microphone are functional. You might want to test them with a friend or family member before the session.
   • Download any necessary apps or software for the telehealth platform. Familiarize yourself with how to use them.
   • If you are unsure about setting up for the Telehealth consultation, some clinics might be able to offer a walkthrough and a test of your setup a few weeks in advance of your session.
2. Choose a Quiet, Private Space:
   • Find a quiet location where you and your child can speak openly without interruptions. For this reason, public spaces such as libraries or open areas where people may overhear the discussion or interrupt may be inappropriate especially as a mental health assessment often discusses personal and sometimes emotional topics.
   • Make sure the space is well-lit so the psychiatrist can see you clearly. Natural lighting works well; avoid sitting directly in front of a bright window.
   • Think about using headphones if available as this may aid the audio experience.
3. Have Necessary Materials Ready:
   • Bring a list of medications your child is currently taking, including dosages.
   • Have any relevant medical records, past evaluations, or school reports ready.
   • Prepare a list of questions or concerns you want to address during the consultation.
4. Ensure Your Child is Comfortable:
   • Explain to your child what to expect from the telehealth visit to help ease any anxiety.
   • Let them know they can have a favorite toy or comfort item with them during the session if it helps them feel more at ease.
   • It may be helpful to prepare some activities (such as drawing, colouring in, activity books) for your child that they can engage in while sitting beside you if required during the session.

During the Appointment: How to Make the Most of Your Time

1. Be On Time:
   • Log into the telehealth platform a few minutes early to avoid any technical issues.
   • Have access to the clinic’s number so that you can contact them if you encounter any issues.
   • Ensure your child is ready to begin the session.
2. Communicate Openly and Honestly:
   • Share your concerns, observations, and any changes in your child's behavior or mood.
   • Encourage your child to speak openly about how they are feeling.
   • The clinician may wish to speak with your child or yourself separately to obtain information. If this is the case, think about how you might do this so that your child or yourself might be able to do this with adequate privacy and so your child will have adequate supervision whilst you are spending time alone with the clinician.
3. Engage Actively in the Session:
   • Be present and attentive. Limit distractions by turning off TVs, silencing phones, and avoiding multitasking. Do not attempt to drive while attending a telehealth consult for safety reasons.
     • Take notes during the session if needed.
4. Ask Questions:
   • Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.
   • Ask about any next steps, follow-up appointments, or recommended resources.
5. Observe Your Child:
   • Notice how your child reacts during the session. If they seem uncomfortable or stressed, mention it to the psychiatrist so they can adjust the approach if needed.

After the Appointment: Follow-Up Steps

1. Review Notes and Next Steps:
   • Go over the notes you took and any recommendations made by the psychiatrist.
   • Make sure you understand any prescribed treatments or behavioural strategies.
2. Follow-Up Appointments:
   • Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments right away.
   • Mark them on your calendar and set reminders.
3. Implement Recommendations:
   • Begin implementing any advice or strategies provided during the consultation.
   • Monitor your child's response to new medications or changes in routine.
4. Stay in Contact:
   • Don’t hesitate to reach out to the clinic if you have further questions or concerns after the appointment.

Tips for a Successful Experience

• Stay Patient: Technical glitches can happen. Stay calm and patient if issues arise. Make sure you know which clinic number to call if the technology does not work to plan.