1.

Test Technical Setup: Before diving into the therapy session, make sure to check that
both you and the client have a stable internet connection and that the video
conferencing platform is working correctly. This will minimize disruptions during the
session.

2. Welcome and Acknowledge the Handover: Start by warmly welcoming the client to
the online therapy session. Acknowledge that they've been seeing another therapist
and that you're aware of the handover.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Hello [Client's Name], welcome to our first online session
together. I want to acknowledge that you've been working with another therapist before
starting with me. I'm here to make this transition as smooth as possible for you."

3. Discuss Confidentiality: Explain the measures you have in place to maintain

confidentiality in the online therapy setting. Reiterate that your online sessions are
secure and private, and let the client know that you will not record the sessions.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Confidentiality is of utmost importance in our sessions. I want

to assure you that our online platform is secure, and I won't record our sessions. Everything
we discuss will be kept confidential, just as it would be in an in-person setting."

4. Introduce the Informed Consent Form: Explain the purpose of the informed consent
form and why it's necessary to go through the process again, even if the client has
already signed one with their previous therapist. You can mention that it's standard
procedure when transitioning to a new therapist.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Before we proceed, I'd like to go over the informed consent
form with you. Even though you've already signed one with your previous therapist, it's
essential for us to have our own updated agreement, as each therapist might have different
practices."

5. Review the Informed Consent Form: Take the time to go through the informed
consent form with the client, addressing any questions or concerns they may have.
 Discuss topics such as confidentiality, session duration, fees, cancellation policies,
and the therapeutic process.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Let's go through the informed consent form together. It covers
the details of our therapy relationship, including confidentiality, our session schedule, fees,
and how we'll work together towards your goals. If you have any questions or if there's
anything you'd like to clarify, please feel free to let me know."

3. Inquire About Their Previous Therapy Experience:

Ask the client about their experience with their previous therapist, what they found helpful,
and what they might have been working on in therapy. This will help you gain insights into
their progress, therapeutic goals, and any challenges they may have faced.

Sample Dialogue:
Therapist: "Before we begin, I'd like to hear about your experience with your previous
therapist. What did you find valuable in your sessions? And were there any specific areas or
issues you were working on that you'd like to continue exploring in our sessions?"

6. Build Rapport and Address Emotional Aspects: Take a moment to acknowledge any
emotions the client might be experiencing due to the transition. Show empathy and
understanding, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings about the
handover.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "I understand that transitioning to a new therapist can be
challenging. If you have any thoughts or emotions about this change, know that it's okay to
share them with me. I'm here to support you through this process."

7. Explore Their Expectations:

Ask the client about their expectations and what they hope to achieve in therapy. This will
help you align your therapeutic approach with their needs and goals.

Sample Dialogue:
Therapist: "What are your expectations for our sessions together? What do you hope to
achieve or explore during our time together?"
 7. Set Goals and Expectations: Discuss the client's therapeutic goals and what they hope
to achieve through your online sessions. Align your approach with their needs and
clarify how you will work together to meet those objectives.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Let's talk about what you'd like to focus on in our sessions.
What are your goals for therapy, and what do you hope to achieve through our work
together?"

8. Create a Safe Space: Emphasize that the online therapy environment is a safe and
confidential space where the client can express themselves openly.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "I want to emphasize that this online therapy space is a safe and
non-judgmental environment. You can share whatever is on your mind, and I'm here to listen
and support you throughout our journey together."
Ending the first online therapy session with a handover client from another therapist
effectively involves summarizing key points discussed during the session, addressing any
lingering concerns, and ensuring the client feels heard and supported. Here's a sample
dialogue and some tips from experts in the psychology field:

1. Summarize the Session: Before concluding the session, summarize the main topics
discussed and any important insights that emerged during the session. This reinforces
the client's understanding and helps them process the information shared.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Before we wrap up, let me summarize what we've discussed
today. We talked about [briefly mention the key topics or issues]."

2. Validate and Normalize Emotions: If the client expresses any emotions or concerns
during the session, validate their feelings and let them know it's entirely normal to
have mixed emotions during a transition to a new therapist.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "I can see that this transition to a new therapist may bring up
various emotions. It's entirely natural to have mixed feelings about starting with someone
new."

3. Address Concerns and Questions: Ask the client if they have any remaining
concerns or questions related to the therapy process, the handover, or anything
discussed during the session. Be attentive and provide clarifications as needed.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Is there anything else on your mind or any questions you'd
like to ask before we end our session today?"

4. Discuss Session Scheduling and Follow-Up: Confirm the client's next session, if it
has already been scheduled. If not, discuss potential dates and times for the next
appointment. Ensure they are clear about how to proceed with booking future
sessions.
Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Our next session is scheduled for [date and time]. If there are
any changes to your availability or if you need to reschedule, please let me know, and we can
find a time that works best for you."

5. End on a Positive Note: Reassure the client that you appreciate the opportunity to
work with them and that you look forward to continuing the therapeutic journey
together.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "I want to thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences
with me today. I'm honored to be part of your journey, and I look forward to working with
you in our upcoming sessions."

6. Offer Support and Resources: Let the client know that they can reach out to you if
they need any support between sessions. If appropriate, provide them with additional
resources or tools related to their therapeutic goals.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "Remember that I'm here to support you, and you can contact
me if anything comes up between our sessions. If you'd like, I can also share some resources
that might be helpful for your specific needs."

7. Discuss Self-Care: Encourage the client to practice self-care and coping strategies
outside of therapy, especially during the initial transition period.

Sample Dialogue: Therapist: "During this transition, it might be helpful to prioritize self-care
and engage in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation. Taking care of yourself
outside of our sessions can complement our work together.