What to Expect and How to Choose the Right Online Therapist

As more people choose therapy that fits their life, online counseling has become a reliable, effective option. At Stenzel Clinical, we offer online sessions across Illinois because we believe care should meet you where you are whether that’s in our Wheaton, Naperville, or Geneva offices, or in the privacy of your home via secure video sessions. Below we’ll walk you through what online therapy feels like, how to choose the right online therapist, and concrete steps to make sure your care is safe, effective, and a good match for you.

Why online therapy is a real option and when it’s a smart choice

Online therapy isn’t a lower-quality alternative when done well, it can be just as effective as in-person therapy. Many people pick telehealth because it removes travel, fits into busy schedules, helps with mobility or childcare limitations, and can reduce the stress of sitting in an unfamiliar office. Research and clinical organizations note that the mechanics of online therapy (regular sessions, structured care, therapeutic relationship) are what drive success not necessarily the physical room.

At Stenzel Clinical we offer online counseling to Illinois residents. Because of licensing laws, we can only provide telehealth to clients who are physically located in Illinois at the time of the session. If online care fits your life and you live in Illinois, we can help you get started.

What to expect at your first online therapy session

Your first appointment is mostly about connection and planning. Expect to:

• Complete brief intake details (history, current concerns, emergency contacts).
• Talk about what brought you to therapy and your top goals.
• Discuss confidentiality, platform security, and how to reach your therapist between sessions if needed.
• Review logistics: session length (often 45–60 minutes), fee or insurance information, cancellation policies, and the frequency of sessions. National guidance and clinical resources describe this general structure as typical for telehealth.

You should leave your first meeting with a clear next step a plan for how often you’ll meet, what therapy approach your clinician will use, and a sense of whether the therapist feels like someone you can work with.

Core criteria for choosing the right online therapist

1) Confirm licensure and where they can legally practice

A therapist must be licensed to provide services in the state where you are physically located during the session. This is crucial for your legal protections and the clinician’s scope of practice. Always verify the license type (LPC, LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, PsyD, PhD) and the state in which it’s valid.

2) Match specialties to your needs

Therapists often specialize (anxiety, depression, trauma, couples, grief, teen issues, faith-based counseling, etc.). Look for clinicians whose training and experience match the problems you want to address. If you’re uncertain what specialty you need, most practices including ours will offer an intake call to help guide you.

3) Ask about therapeutic approach and fit

Therapy approaches differ: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR, ACT, psychodynamic therapy, solution-focused work, and more. Ask how your therapist typically helps people with problems like yours and whether they track progress (symptom measures, goals, homework). Fit matters: a therapist can be technically skilled but still not be the right interpersonal match for you.

4) Confirm privacy, platform, and security

A good online therapist uses a HIPAA-compliant video platform or secure client portal. They should be able to explain how your information is protected, how session data is stored, and what to expect if there’s a technical failure. If the platform feels unclear or the clinician can’t describe safeguards, ask more questions or consider other options.

5) Check logistics. Cost, insurance, and scheduling

Make sure the therapist accepts your insurance or that you understand the out-of-pocket fee. Ask about session length, typical scheduling windows, how to cancel, and how emergencies are handled. If you need evening or weekend availability, verify the clinician can meet those needs. Many practices offer a short consultation to make this clear before you commit.

6) Look for transparent policies and emergency planning

A responsible online therapist will explain how to handle crises, including how they coordinate care if you’re in immediate danger or need higher-level services. They should confirm local emergency resources near where you live (this is especially important with telehealth across locations).

Red flags to watch for

• The therapist refuses to discuss licensure, insurance, or fees.
• The clinician can’t explain how they protect your privacy online.
• They ask for sexual contact or offer romantic interest this is unethical and illegal.
• They promise quick cures or guaranteed outcomes. Therapy takes time and partnership.

If any of these occur, stop the evaluation and seek another provider.

Practical tips for making your first online session go well

• Choose a quiet, private space with reliable internet and good lighting.
• Use headphones, if possible, to protect privacy.
• Test the platform ahead of time (many systems have a test link).
• Have emergency contact details handy and share them with your therapist if requested.
• Be honest about your hopes and concerns, the sooner you say what matters most, the faster you and your therapist can build a treatment plan.

How Stenzel Clinical approaches online therapy

At Stenzel Clinical we combine professional competence with a warm, faith-sensitive approach when requested. We offer online counseling to Illinois residents and maintain three local offices (Wheaton, Naperville, Geneva) for those who want a mix of in-person and telehealth options. Our therapists prioritize clear communication: we’ll explain licensure, confidentiality, fees, and therapy style before you decide to continue. If you’re unsure, we encourage a brief intake call so you can feel confident about the fit.

When online therapy might not be right (and what to do instead)

Online therapy is excellent for many problems, but it may not be ideal for people in immediate danger, those needing intensive psychiatric care, or clients who lack a private, safe space. If higher levels of care are needed, a safe therapist will help connect you with local resources, inpatient options, or crisis services

Final checklist before you book

• Is the clinician licensed in the state where you’ll be during sessions?
• Does their specialty match your needs?
• Can they explain confidentiality and platform security?
• Do you understand fees, insurance, and scheduling?
• Do you feel comfortable with the clinician’s style after a brief consult?

If you can check most (or all) of these, you’re in a strong position to begin meaningful work.

Ready when you are

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and feeling safe and understood from the start matters. If you live in Illinois and would like an intake conversation, Stenzel Clinical is here to help. We’ll walk you through every step licensure, insurance, session format, and finding a therapist who respects your values and goals. Call or schedule an appointment to begin, we’re honored to help you find hope and live well.