Arlene Small

Arlene Small, LADC-I, brings nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health and extensive experience supporting people affected by trauma and PTSD. Her clinical background includes working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and family and relationship challenges.

Arlene understands that people often come to therapy with several concerns that overlap. She takes time to understand each person’s experiences, strengths, relationships, and priorities, helping them identify what they need and what they hope to change.

She earned her master’s degree in human services from Springfield College and provides virtual individual therapy through Integrative Medicine & Psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, and older adults throughout Massachusetts.

Arlene’s approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in respect for each person’s experiences. She creates space for honest conversation while helping clients develop practical ways to manage distress, understand recurring patterns, and navigate challenges in daily life.

Her work draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused approaches. Together, Arlene and her clients explore connections among thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships, then establish goals that reflect what matters most to them.

When past experiences are relevant, Arlene helps clients explore their impact at a pace that feels manageable. Clients do not need to share every detail of their history to begin. Therapy balances deeper understanding with practical skills that can support change between sessions.

In the first session, Arlene focuses on getting to know you, understanding what brings you to therapy, and learning what you would like help with. She will ask about your current concerns, relevant history, sources of support, and what has or has not been helpful before. There is room to ask questions, express uncertainty, and discuss what would help you feel comfortable in the process.

Ongoing sessions offer a balance of thoughtful exploration and practical problem-solving. Depending on your goals, this may include understanding trauma responses, developing coping strategies, addressing eating or substance use concerns, strengthening communication, or navigating anxiety and depression.

You can expect a therapist who listens carefully, offers compassionate feedback, and works with you to review progress and adjust the focus as your needs evolve.