First LGBTQ affirming therapy session checklist
For an adult beginning counseling with an LGBTQ-affirming provider. Share only the identity details and goals that feel relevant.
What to get
Appointment confirmation
Photo ID
Insurance card or payment method
Completed intake forms
Preferred name note
Pronouns note, if desired
Current medication list
Brief list of goals for counseling
Questions about confidentiality
Questions about the counselor's experience
Emergency contact information
Telehealth link and headphones, if virtual
Private space for a virtual session
Notebook
Pen
Water bottle
Who this list is for
This checklist serves adults starting therapy with an LGBTQ-affirming counselor. It’s designed for those who want to feel prepared and respected in their first session, whether in-person or virtual. You decide what identity details and goals to share—this list helps you bring what matters to you.
How to use this list
Start by confirming your appointment and gathering your photo ID and insurance card or payment method. If you have intake forms from the provider, fill them out ahead of time. Make a quick note of your preferred name and pronouns, if you want to share them. Bring a list of your current medications and jot down a few goals for counseling. If your session is virtual, test your telehealth link and headphones, and set up a private space. Have a notebook ready for any thoughts or questions.
Common mistakes
People sometimes forget to bring completed intake forms or leave their insurance card at home. For virtual sessions, technical issues can cause stress—test your link and headphones before the session starts. Don’t feel pressured to share more identity details than you’re comfortable with. It’s also easy to forget to bring up questions about confidentiality or the counselor’s experience—write them down in advance.
What is on this list
You’ll find items like appointment confirmation, photo ID, insurance card or payment method, completed intake forms, preferred name and pronouns notes, current medication list, and a brief list of goals for counseling. There’s also space for questions about confidentiality, questions about the counselor’s experience, emergency contact information, and, for virtual sessions, a telehealth link, headphones, and a private space. Cross off what you already have or don’t need.
Before you go
Before heading to your session, double-check that you have everything packed or accessible. For virtual appointments, make sure your space is private and your devices are charged. Review your notes and questions so you feel ready. Give yourself a few minutes to breathe and settle before the session begins.
FAQ
Who is "First LGBTQ affirming therapy session checklist" for?
This checklist serves adults starting therapy with an LGBTQ-affirming counselor. It’s designed for those who want to feel prepared and respected in their first session, whether in-person or virtual. You decide what identity details and goals to share—this list helps you bring what matters to you.
How should I use "First LGBTQ affirming therapy session checklist"?
Start by confirming your appointment and gathering your photo ID and insurance card or payment method. If you have intake forms from the provider, fill them out ahead of time. Make a quick note of your preferred name and pronouns, if you want to share them. Bring a list of your current medications and jot down a few goals for counseling. If your session is…
What should I skip or avoid with "First LGBTQ affirming therapy session checklist"?
People sometimes forget to bring completed intake forms or leave their insurance card at home. For virtual sessions, technical issues can cause stress—test your link and headphones before the session starts. Don’t feel pressured to share more identity details than you’re comfortable with. It’s also easy to forget to bring up questions about confidentiality…
What is on the "First LGBTQ affirming therapy session checklist" list?
You’ll find items like appointment confirmation, photo ID, insurance card or payment method, completed intake forms, preferred name and pronouns notes, current medication list, and a brief list of goals for counseling. There’s also space for questions about confidentiality, questions about the counselor’s experience, emergency contact information, and, for…
What should I do before I go?
Before heading to your session, double-check that you have everything packed or accessible. For virtual appointments, make sure your space is private and your devices are charged. Review your notes and questions so you feel ready. Give yourself a few minutes to breathe and settle before the session begins.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.