Make a little room for your questions

Getting ready for a first appointment.

Before the first hello

A few words to take with you.

You can ask questions before deciding about care. Make a note for a call or visit, then change it until it sounds like you.

This worksheet stays in the page unless you save or copy it. It doesn’t book anything or send a message to a provider.

Who you might contact (optional)What you want help with (optional)

What would you like to ask?Privacy & familyBefore I explain what's going on, what stays private? When would you need to tell a parent, guardian, or someone else? Who can see portal messages, appointment reminders, or insurance paperwork?Cost & insuranceWhat would the first visit and follow-up visits cost? Do you accept my insurance? Are there free or lower-cost options?Whether they can see meDo you see people my age for this kind of support? What consent, referral, or paperwork would I need?The first visitWhat happens at the first visit, how long is it, and what should I bring? Can I bring someone I trust?Getting there & feeling comfortableDo you offer phone or video appointments, times outside school, language support, or accessibility accommodations? Who can I ask about transportation?

Privacy rules, cost, and eligibility depend on the service and your situation. These are questions to ask, not promises about what a provider will do.

Practice saying it ↗Find local care ↗

Preparation questions informed by SAMHSA’s appointment guidance ↗. Confirm details directly with the service.