We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Brandi Givargidze a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Brandi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?
The early days of starting Bloom Counseling Services were both exciting and challenging. After graduating from grad school, I knew I wanted to start my own counseling practice to create a safe and welcoming space for individuals seeking mental health support.
One of the main steps I had to take was securing a physical office space. I spent weeks researching different locations, considering factors such as foot traffic, accessibility, and affordability. Once I found the perfect space, I had to design and furnish it to create a calming and inviting atmosphere for my clients.
Another key challenge was building a client base from scratch. I had to invest time and resources into marketing and networking to spread the word about my practice. I attended community events, reached out to local doctors and therapists for referrals, and utilized social media to promote my services. It was a slow process, but eventually, my client base began to grow through word of mouth and positive reviews.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change much about the way I started my practice. Everything is an opportunity for learning and growth.
My advice for a young professional considering starting their own practice is to have a clear vision and mission for your business. Take the time to research and plan out every aspect of your practice, from location and branding to services and pricing. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, colleagues, and friends who can offer guidance and encouragement along the way. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take risks and step outside of your comfort zone to pursue your passion. Starting your own practice is a challenging but rewarding journey that can ultimately lead to personal and professional growth.
Brandi, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
As the owner of Bloom Counseling Services, my passion for mental health and helping others navigate life’s challenges has been a driving force in my career. I entered the counseling industry with a deep desire to support individuals, couples, and families in their journey towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
I offer a range of counseling services including individual, couples, and family therapy. I specialize in helping clients navigate issues related to identity, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship concerns, and more. My approach is laid-back and non-judgmental, creating a safe space where clients can truly be themselves and explore their emotions and experiences openly.
What sets me apart from others in the field is my commitment to providing personalized and compassionate care to each individual I work with. I believe in the power of building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust, empathy, and understanding. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel supported and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.
I am most proud of the positive impact I have been able to make in the lives of my clients. Witnessing their growth, resilience, and transformation throughout our work together is incredibly fulfilling and reminds me of the importance of the work that I do.
For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that at Bloom Counseling Services, they will find a safe and accepting space to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings. I am here to support and guide them through life’s challenges with empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to their well-being. My goal is to help individuals, couples, and families find healing, clarity, and a sense of empowerment as they navigate their unique journeys towards mental and emotional wellness.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Taking the time to create a strong brand for Bloom Counseling Services and using social media to promote my practice has helped me build a good reputation in the market. I made sure to have a clear brand identity that shows what makes my practice unique and special. This includes how I present myself online, in my marketing materials, and when working with clients. Using social media has allowed me to connect with more people and share information about my services. It has helped me reach a larger audience and show others what Bloom Counseling Services is all about. These efforts have been key in establishing my credibility and reputation in the field.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
In addition to training and knowledge, I believe that self-care and maintaining one’s own mental health are crucial for succeeding in the field of mental health care. As mental health providers, we are continuously exposed to the emotional struggles and challenges of our clients, which can take a toll on our own well-being. Prioritizing self-care practices such as regular exercise, healthy eating, mindfulness, and seeking supervision or therapy for ourselves can help prevent burnout and compassion fatigue. By taking care of our own mental health, we are better equipped to provide high-quality care to our clients, maintain boundaries, and establish a strong therapeutic alliance. Additionally, ongoing professional development, attending supervision sessions, and participating in peer support groups can provide valuable opportunities for personal growth, reflection, and enhancing clinical skills. Ultimately, investing in our own mental health and well-being not only benefits us as providers but also enhances the quality of care we can offer to our clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bloomcounselingservicesfl.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomcounselingservices?igsh=MXNrcWJ1NTdtN3gzeA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093298458524&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandingivargidze?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app