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The process

How LANTERN works

From first thought to first session — usually within 48 hours. Here’s exactly what to expect.

The four steps

  1. Complete your intake

    5 min

    A short, thoughtful questionnaire: what's been on your mind, the areas you'd like to focus on, your preferred communication style, language, format (video, messaging, or both), and when you're generally available. There's no wrong answer — we're building a picture of you, not testing you.

    Your answers are private and encrypted. We use them only for matching.

  2. Receive your matches

    Within hours

    Our clinical team reviews your intake alongside therapist profiles, availability, and specialties. You receive 2–3 specific recommendations — with a brief explanation of why each therapist might be a good fit. You choose who to work with.

    Not happy with your options? You can request different recommendations, no pressure.

  3. Book your first session

    Same day

    Once you select a therapist, you'll see their real-time availability. Book a session, or — if you prefer — send them an introductory message first. Many members like to break the ice before scheduling.

    First sessions are 50 minutes. The goal: to understand each other, not to solve everything.

  4. Build your practice

    Ongoing

    Weekly or bi-weekly sessions, supplemented by your member dashboard: mood tracking, journaling prompts, session notes, and curated resources. Therapy works best as a practice, not just a series of appointments.

    Change frequency, format, or therapist anytime. We adapt to your life.

Session formats

Most popular

Live video sessions

50-minute encrypted video calls, on any device. No app download required — just a browser. Your therapist is fully present; the setting feels warmer than you might expect.

Async messaging

Send a message whenever it comes to you — morning commute, 2am, mid-afternoon spiral. Your therapist responds with care, typically within 24 hours. Think of it as a therapeutic correspondence.

For partners

Couples sessions

Joint video sessions with a therapist specializing in relationship dynamics. Available to partners at any stage — early conflict, long-term difficulty, or navigating a major life transition together.

Confidentiality

Your privacy is non-negotiable

End-to-end encrypted video

Sessions are transmitted over encrypted connections and never recorded without your explicit consent.

HIPAA-compliant infrastructure

All data is stored and handled in accordance with HIPAA regulations. Your health information is never sold or shared with advertisers.

You own your data

Request a copy of your data or permanent deletion at any time. No lock-in, no hidden retention.

Ready to find your therapist?

The intake takes about 5 minutes. We’ll do the matching — you make the final call.

Start your intake Browse therapists