You do not need to prepare what you will say in a first therapy session. As Dr. Rabin explains in what to expect in your first therapy session, it is a conversation, not a test, and you can come as you are. That post covers what happens in the room.
This list covers the practical side: the things worth sorting out before you go, so that money, logistics and technology do not take up space on the day. It is written with Dr. Rabin's private-pay, out-of-network practice in mind, but most of it applies to any therapist.
1. Use the free consultation call to ask your questions
Many therapists offer a short call before the first appointment. Dr. Rabin offers a free 15-minute phone consultation. It is a chance to describe briefly what is bringing you in and to ask about her approach, fees and scheduling. Write your questions down beforehand so you do not forget them. Dr. Rabin's post on 5 questions to ask before choosing a therapist is a good starting list.
2. Check your out-of-network benefits
If your therapist is out-of-network, as Dr. Rabin is, call the member services number on your insurance card before you start. Her fees page suggests asking: Do I have out-of-network benefits for outpatient mental health? What is my out-of-network deductible, and has it been met? What percentage is reimbursed after that? Is there a limit on sessions per year? Write down the answers and the name of the person you spoke to.
3. Understand how superbills work
A superbill is an itemized receipt with the dates of service, fees paid and billing codes your insurer needs for an out-of-network claim. Dr. Rabin provides one each month, and you submit it to your insurer yourself. Ask your insurer how they want claims sent, whether by online portal, app or mail, so you are ready when the first one arrives. Reimbursement depends entirely on your plan.
4. Confirm the fee and how you will pay
Know the fee before the first session. Dr. Rabin's sessions are $375, paid at the time of service, and she has a limited number of sliding-scale spots you can ask about during the consultation. If you are not using insurance to pay, federal rules usually entitle you to a good faith estimate of expected charges if you ask for one or schedule at least three business days ahead, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
5. Sort out the logistics of getting there
For an in-person session, confirm the address and plan your route. Dr. Rabin's office is at 1577 Beacon Street in Brookline. Check travel time for the hour of your appointment and allow a few extra minutes so you are not arriving flustered. Put the appointment in your calendar with a reminder, and save the office phone number, (617) 256-1004, in case you are running late.
6. For telehealth, set up your space and tech
Dr. Rabin sends a secure video link before each session. You will need a device with a camera, a reliable internet connection and a private, quiet space where you will not be overheard. Test your camera and microphone ahead of time, charge your device and turn off notifications. Because she is licensed in Massachusetts, you need to be physically in the state during the session. More on her online therapy page.
7. Find real privacy, not just a quiet room
It is hard to speak openly if a partner, roommate or child might walk in. If home is not private, options include a parked car, a booked room at work or a friend's place. Headphones help keep the other side of the conversation private, and a white-noise machine or fan outside the door can help too. Some people keep water, tissues or a notebook nearby, as they would in an office.
8. Gather a few practical facts
You do not need notes about your feelings, but a few facts can save time: any medications you take and who prescribes them, roughly when and where you had therapy before, and the names of other clinicians involved in your care. If you are unsure whether there are forms to complete beforehand, ask during the consultation call.
9. Leave some time after the session
First sessions can stir things up, even good ones. If you can, avoid booking a demanding meeting or task right afterward. A short walk, a quiet drive or a few minutes to sit before your next obligation gives you room to notice how it went and what stayed with you.
A quick checklist
The night before, run through this short list. For what happens once you are in the room, read Dr. Rabin's post on what to expect in your first therapy session.
- Consultation call done and questions answered
- Out-of-network benefits checked, with notes from the call
- Fee, payment method and sliding-scale question settled
- Address and travel time confirmed, or video link and device tested
- A private space arranged for telehealth
- Medication list and past-therapy dates jotted down, if relevant
- A little time left free afterward
Ready to book?
Dr. Rabin is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 21 years of experience. She sees clients in person in Brookline and over secure telehealth anywhere in Massachusetts. You can request a free 15-minute phone consultation through her contact page, and her FAQ covers other common questions. If you are still comparing clinicians, the FAQ covers how Dr. Rabin works and what to expect.
If you are in crisis, do not wait for a first appointment. Call or text 988. In an emergency, call 911.
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Last reviewed September 2026. This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you are in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.
