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What to Expect at Your First Appointment with Bodhi Counseling

At Bodhi Counseling, our goal is to make your first appointment welcoming, respectful, and as useful as possible. Whether you’re brand new to therapy or returning after a break, knowing what to expect can ease uncertainty and help you feel more comfortable and prepared.


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A Warm, Judgment-Free Welcome


From the moment you step into our waiting room or join us for a telehealth session, you’ll be met with kindness, respect, and a sense of safety. We understand how much courage it takes to reach out, and we’re here to meet you with compassion every step of the way. We celebrate what makes you unique, and we’re honored to offer a space where you can feel truly heard, supported, and understood, just as you are.


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A Thorough Mental Health Assessment


Your first session is a chance for your therapist to get to know you through a structured mental health assessment. It’s not just about what brought you in, but also about understanding your emotional, social, and physical well-being in a fuller way. You’ll be invited to share your:


  • Current symptoms or concerns

  • Past mental health history

  • Family and relationship dynamics

  • Major life events and stressors

  • Strengths, coping strategies, and goals


This assessment helps your therapist better understand your needs and experiences, and supports the development of a personalized plan you’ll create together.



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Small Steps are Okay


The first session isn’t a deep dive into your most painful experiences. You’re in control of how much you share, and your therapist will check in to make sure the pace feels right for you. It’s a beginning, and if you feel safest taking baby steps, that’s what you can do.


Collaboration


Toward the end of your first session, you and your therapist will begin identifying therapy goals and scheduling future sessions. They can also connect you with additional resources, including medication and non-medication support from our in-house psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Your treatment plan will be tailored to fit your unique needs and preferences.


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We’re Here


We believe therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and grounded in respect for who you are. Your story matters, and Bodhi is a safe place to begin telling it.


If you’re thinking about therapy or are ready to book your first session, our therapists are here to help you take that first step. Reach out at info@bodhicounseling.care




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