You Decided to Start Therapy- Now What? What Most People Wish They Knew Before Starting Therapy
You have made the decision to start therapy. Congrats! It is a big step that can feel vulnerable and exciting. But then your mind starts racing- what does it actually mean to go to therapy?
If you find yourself wondering all the ins and outs of how therapy works, read on to learn more about what most people ask before starting therapy.
Is Online Therapy as Effective as In-Person Therapy?
Yes.
A 2021 study comparing effectiveness of telehealth and in-person mental health care found that there is no difference in outcomes for people who see their therapist via telehealth or in-person. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8595951/).
The best option is one you’ll actually attend consistently. Whether you prefer meeting in a cozy office or from the comfort of your own home, both can provide meaningful support.
How Long is a Therapy Session?
Most therapy sessions last between 45 and 55 minutes.
Some therapists offer longer or shorter appointments depending on your needs, treatment approach, or insurance coverage.
What Happens During the First Session?
Your first appointment, often called an intake session, is about getting to know each other.
We’ll review practice policies, confidentiality, and answer any questions you have. Then we’ll spend time talking about what brings you to therapy, your important relationships, and what you hope will be different because of therapy.
If you would like more details on what happens in a first session at Partners in Change Therapy and Consulting, LLC, check out this resource on what to expect during your first therapy session.
How Often Should I Meet with My Therapist?
Most people begin with weekly sessions.
Meeting consistently helps build momentum, develop the therapeutic relationship, and practice new skills between sessions. As you begin feeling better and making progress, many people transition to meeting every other week.
You and your therapist will decide together what schedule makes the most sense for your goals and life.
How Long Does Therapy Take to Work?
The answer is different for everyone.
The length of therapy depends on your goals, what’s bringing you in, and how often you attend sessions. Some people come for a few months to work through a specific concern while others choose longer term therapy for ongoing support.
Research has found that an average of 15 to 20 weekly or biweekly sessions are needed for the majority of clients to notice meaningful improvements. (https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/length-treatment)
A Gentle Reminder
Starting therapy can be both overwhelming and relieving. There are a lot of factors to consider and it can often feel like a you need to learn a whole new language to navigate the systems. Remember, you can always ask questions in a consultation call to understand more about your therapist’s approach.
If you’re looking for mental health therapy in Connecticut or Massachusetts, Partners in Change Therapy and Consulting, LLC offers in-person therapy in Southington, CT and online therapy across Connecticut and Massachusetts. You can schedule a free 20 minute consultation, so we can talk about what’s going on and what kind of support might feel helpful- now or in the future.
