Your First Mental Health Appointment: What to Expect at Anuvia

Taking the first step toward mental health support can feel overwhelming. At Anuvia, we’ve designed our initial appointment process to be welcoming, straightforward, and stress-free. Whether you’re seeking help for the first time or returning after a break, this page explains exactly what to expect when you connect with our team. With same-day appointments available and a commitment to accessible care, getting started on your path to better mental health has never been easier.

Making Your First Appointment: Simple and Quick

Getting started with mental health services at Anuvia is straightforward and designed with your comfort in mind:

  1. Reach Out: Call us at (704) 376-7447 or use our online scheduling system. Our friendly staff will ask a few basic questions to understand your needs and match you with the right provider.
  2. Same-Day Options: Unlike many mental health providers with long waiting lists, we offer same-day appointments. We understand that when you’re ready to seek help, waiting can be difficult.
  3. Flexible Scheduling: We offer appointments during daytime, evening, and weekend hours to accommodate your schedule. Both in-person and telehealth options are available throughout North Carolina.
  4. No Referral Needed: You don’t need a referral from your primary care doctor or another provider to schedule an appointment with us. You can come directly to Anuvia whenever you’re ready.

5. Walk-Ins Welcome: If you’re in crisis or simply ready to start right away, you can walk into our Charlotte location without an appointment.

What Is an Initial Appointment?

Your first visit at Anuvia is an opportunity for us to get to know you and understand how we can best support your mental health needs. This is a conversation so that we can learn about what’s bringing you in and what you hope to achieve.

During this initial meeting, you’ll talk with a compassionate mental health professional who will:

  • Listen to your concerns and experiences
  • Ask questions about your current situation and history
  • Discuss your goals for treatment
  • Explain the services that might benefit you
  • Answer any questions you have about the process

This appointment typically lasts about 45-60 minutes and is focused on building a foundation for effective care that’s personalized to your specific needs.

What to Bring to Your First Appointment

To make your first appointment as smooth as possible, we recommend bringing:

  • Your insurance card (if you have insurance)
  • A form of identification
  • A list of any medications you’re currently taking
  • Any questions you have about the process or services

If you’re concerned about paperwork, don’t worry. We’ve streamlined our intake forms, which can be completed online before your appointment or when you arrive. Our team is always available to help if you need assistance with any forms.

Your Privacy and Confidentiality

We understand that discussing mental health concerns requires trust. At Anuvia, we take your privacy very seriously. All information shared during your appointments is confidential and protected by law. We’ll explain our privacy policies during your first visit and answer any questions you might have about confidentiality.

The only exceptions to confidentiality are situations where there is an immediate safety risk, which we’ll discuss transparently with you during your first appointment.

What Happens During Your Initial Appointment

Your first appointment is designed to be conversational and comfortable. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Warm Welcome: You’ll be greeted by our friendly front desk staff who will help you complete any necessary paperwork if you haven’t done so online.
  2. Meeting Your Provider: You’ll meet with a licensed mental health professional in a private, comfortable space (or via secure video call for telehealth appointments).
  3. Getting to Know You: Your provider will ask about what brought you in, how you’ve been feeling, and what you’re hoping to achieve. This isn’t an interrogation—it’s a conversation led by your concerns and needs.
  4. Discussing Your History: Your provider may ask about your personal history, including past mental health experiences, medical conditions, family background, and current life circumstances. You’re in control of how much you choose to share. We’ll go at your pace and support you every step of the way.
  5. Collaborative Planning: Together with your provider, you’ll discuss potential next steps and treatment options based on your needs and preferences.
  6. Addressing Questions: There will be plenty of time for you to ask questions about treatment approaches, scheduling, payment, or anything else on your mind.

After Your Initial Appointment

By the end of your first appointment, you’ll have a clearer understanding of:

  • Potential approaches to address your concerns
  • Recommended next steps for your care
  • Frequency of appointments that might be beneficial
  • Whether individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, or a combination would be most helpful

In many cases, you can schedule your next appointment before leaving. Whether you’re continuing with the same provider or being connected with someone who specializes in your specific needs, we ensure a smooth transition to ongoing care.

If medication might be helpful, we’ll connect you with our medication management team, conveniently located in the same facility. This “one-stop shop” approach means you don’t have to coordinate between different providers or facilities.

No Long Wait Times for Ongoing Care

Unlike many mental health providers who have long waiting periods between initial appointments and regular sessions, at Anuvia we prioritize getting you into consistent care quickly. After your first appointment, you can typically begin regular sessions within a week or less.

Insurance and Payment for Your Initial Appointment

We accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance. Your initial appointment is usually covered just like any other mental health service.

If you don’t have insurance or are concerned about costs, remember that Anuvia is committed to ensuring that no one is turned away due to inability to pay. During your first appointment, we can discuss sliding scale payment options and other resources to make care affordable.

Taking the First Step

Reaching out for help takes courage. We’re here to make that first step easier. We’ve designed our process to make this step as easy and stress-free as possible.

Whether you’re dealing with everyday stress or more complex concerns, our team at Anuvia is ready to provide the compassionate, personalized support you deserve.

Ready to schedule your initial appointment? Call us today at (704) 376-7447 or visit our website to book online. Same-day appointments are available, and we welcome walk-ins at our Charlotte location.