The Samaritan  Counseling Center

of Southwest Georgia

Many individuals are somewhat apprehensive approaching their first visit to the counseling center.  It is normal to feel somewhat nervous and unsure about what the experience will be like.  We at the Samaritan Counseling Center like to do all that we can to help make this experience as comfortable as possible.

            On your first visit, it may be helpful to arrive 5-10 minutes before your scheduled appointment time in order to complete the necessary paperwork.  If you are planning on using insurance to cover the cost of counseling, be sure to bring a copy of your insurance card so that we may obtain a copy for your file.  We encourage our clients to call the insurance company before attending the first session to verify whether or not counseling is covered.  During this phone call, you may receive an authorization code.  Please bring that code along with your insurance card.

            After the paperwork is completed, you will meet with your counselor for approximately 50 minutes.  During this time, you are free to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have about the counseling process.  The main goal of this initial meeting is to gather information about the client.  Questions regarding your current symptoms or issues, past issues, relationships, and physical health will be discussed during your initial visit.  If you are on any type of medication, please have the name of the medication and dosage information readily available. 

In addition to learning about the client, this initial session also gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the counseling process, policies, or counselor qualifications.  Our goal for the first session is to make you feel as comfortable as possible, while obtaining the necessary information for the counselor and client to make an informed decision about proceeding with counseling. 

Below are links to the forms that you will need for your first visit.  Please print and fill out these forms so that you may have them ready for your first visit.

A faith-based,
professional counseling center,
offering counseling, educational programs, and consultation
to meet the needs of the entire person
- mind, body, and spirit.