How long does it take?
From the book – Chapter 14: Counselling and Psychotherapy
How long does it take?
It depends. Brief, focused therapies may last 6 to 20 sessions. Complex or long-standing difficulties can require months or years. A good therapist reviews progress regularly with you and is open about time and cost. Many people notice some improvement within the first month or two.
Read the full chapter – Chapter 14: Counselling and Psychotherapy
Stories from real life
- The Waiting Room – Priya, 26, a software tester in Pune, has avoided therapy for a year. She fears being called mad, being judged, and having to spill everything on…
- Two Kitchens, One Quarrel – Hamid and Salma have been married six years, living with his parents in Hyderabad. Every small matter becomes a fight: who cooks, how money is spent,…
- When Words Alone Were Not Enough – Luca, 41, a chef in Rome, has had panic attacks for three years. His heart pounds, his chest tightens and he fears he will die. He…
- Neha, Age 29 – Neha, twenty-nine, was always exhausted. On the outside she was the perfect friend, daughter and employee: always smiling, always agreeing, never saying no. Inside, she was…
Shloks
- Bhagavad Gita 4.34 – Know that by approaching with respect, by questioning, and by service. Those who see reality will teach you.
More on this topic: Counselling, therapy and psychiatric medicines explained
More questions
- What therapists do and do not do?
- Getting the most out of therapy – explained simply
- Understanding self-help and guided self-help – counselling and therapy
- Is it true that therapy is only for "mad" people?
- Is it true that therapists just listen and do nothing?
- Is it true that if I go to therapy, I am weak?
- Is it true that therapy will go on forever?
- What is true: CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) focuses on…?
- Which is TRUE about psychotherapy?
- What is true: A key benefit of therapy is…?
- What happens in counselling or therapy?
- Myths and facts about mental health medicines