Getting Started is Easy
The Arlington Center is a multi-specialty group offering a variety of services. Your providor is your point of contact for your appointments, including your initial appointment. If you need assistance in choosing one of our counselors, please call the number below and we will help you set up an initial appointment with a counselor.
Your First Appointment
We want your time with us to be successful and know that the relationship between the therapist and the client is the most accurate predictor of success in the therapy.
During the first few moments of your initial appointment there will be a few minutes of gathering information from you (mailing address, insurance information, etc.), and signing a few forms, but the bulk of the time will be spent talking about what brought you in for counseling.
The therapist will focus on hearing your story, asking questions asked that are meant to better understand your particular struggle and situation. You will be free to ask any questions you may have as well. This is also a time to measure how comfortable this feels and if this is a good “fit” between you and the therapist.
If the client and therapist like one another, and if the client feels respected and safe during therapy, the probability of experiencing success is high. By the end of your first session, you can expect some feedback from the therapist and both of you will agree on a “game plan” before the end of the session.
Prior to coming to your first appointment, please read and where necessary complete the forms on our Forms page.
Appointments
Therapy sessions are typically on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Monthly appointments are sometimes appropriate. Additional appointment times can be arranged on an “as needed basis.” A therapy “hour” is 45-50 minutes in duration and may be referred to as a “clinical hour.” If you are late for your appointment, it is typically necessary to stop at the normal time. Other services may be offered at different rates or as one-time charges. Your therapist may propose other services or evaluation with another provider to further your progress- these recommendations are not mandatory, however your decisions regarding the recommendations may affect future outcomes of your services.
Administrative Issues
Your provider will be happy to discuss any questions or concerns you have about their qualifiactions and approaches to serving your individualized needs.
Your therapist is your contact person. If you have questions about billing, adminstation, or need to set up or cancel an appointment, please contact them directly by the phone number they provided for you.
Caution: Psychotherapy may be upsetting
Be hereby forewarned and cautioned that engaging in psychotherapy may involve experiencing uncomfortable past traumatic events, difficult intense emotions such as depression, anger, grief, confusion, or anxiety. It may also result in changes in your life that could be difficult to face.