What to Expect

Getting started, step-by-step.

At The Brookline Center, our caring, compassionate staff are here to support you and your family. As Brookline’s largest human services agency, we provide care to thousands of people each year. We know that finding help can be frustrating. Our team will walk you through the process, making sure you get services matched to your specific needs. Together we can help you discover hope, healing, and a healthier future.

The first step:

Call our intake team directly at (617) 860-2084. Our phones are currently open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

What happens next?

Tell us about your situation. Our intake coordinator will ask you a few questions about the reason you’re seeking support, your schedule, your access to insurance, and other basics. This will help her find the best starting place for you.

We’ll identify a specific therapist, group program, or service for you, based on your needs and considerations such as your schedule, age, and insurer.

We’ll schedule your first appointment as soon as possible: Your assigned clinician or group leader will call you to set up your first visit. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your first appointment to fill out registration forms — or complete forms before your first scheduled appointment, if meeting virtually.

What happens over time?

Everyone’s care is different. Sometimes a few sessions will get you headed in the right direction, and sometimes longer term, different, or additional services are appropriate. You and your clinician can discuss your personal plan at any time along the way.

How do I pay for care?

As a community mental health center, The Brookline Center is committed to access and affordability. We never turn away Brookline residents for financial reasons.

Many of our services — including individual and group therapy — are covered by insurance, including MassHealth and Medicare. Other services may be free or offered on a sliding scale. Our intake coordinator will explain payment options, including access to insurance if you are not currently insured. Learn more about Fees, Insurance & Financial Assistance.