Brief Therapy
Brief therapy, also known as short-term therapy, is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals address specific problems and achieve their goals in a limited number of sessions. It is based on the principle that people have the ability to change and overcome their difficulties in a relatively short amount of time. Brief therapy typically lasts from 6 – 20 sessions, depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of the problem.
Brief therapy draws on a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy, among others. The therapist and client work together to identify the client’s goals and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the client’s specific needs.
How Does Brief Therapy Work?
One of the key features of brief therapy is its focus on the present and the future rather than the past. The therapist helps the client identify specific problems or challenges and then works with the client to develop strategies for overcoming those challenges. The therapist may use a variety of techniques, such as role-playing, visualisation, or cognitive restructuring, to help the client develop new skills and coping strategies.
What is Brief Therapy Used to Treat?
Brief therapy is often used to address a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and substance abuse. It may also be used to help individuals cope with stressful life events, such as job loss or divorce.
One of the main benefits of brief therapy is its efficiency. Because it is designed to be short-term, clients can often see results in a relatively short amount of time. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are dealing with time-sensitive issues, such as a job loss or relationship difficulties.
In addition, brief therapy is often less expensive than traditional long-term therapy, making it more accessible to a wider range of individuals. It also tends to be more structured and focused, which can be helpful for individuals who prefer a more goal-oriented approach to therapy.
Despite its benefits, brief therapy is not appropriate for everyone. Individuals with more complex or severe mental health issues may require longer-term therapy to achieve meaningful change. Additionally, individuals who have experienced trauma or have a history of substance abuse may require specialised treatment.
How Many Sessions are Typically Required?
The length of treatment in brief therapy can vary depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of the problem. Typically, brief therapy lasts from 6 – 20 sessions, with each session lasting from 45 – 60 minutes. However, the therapist and client may decide to extend or shorten treatment based on the client’s progress and goals.
During the initial sessions, the therapist and client work together to identify the client’s goals and develop a treatment plan. The therapist may use a variety of assessment tools, such as questionnaires or interviews, to gain a better understanding of the client’s symptoms and needs.
Once the treatment plan is developed, the therapist and client work together to implement it. This may involve a variety of techniques, such as relaxation training, cognitive restructuring, or behavioural activation, depending on the client’s needs and goals. Throughout the course of treatment, the therapist and client regularly review progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. The therapist may also provide the client with homework assignments or other activities to practice outside of sessions.
Get in Touch
If you or a loved one are seeking support, please get in touch by completing the enquiry form, or email me at [email protected].
I will arrange a mutually agreeable time to have an initial consultation with you, at no cost and with no pressure to commit to further sessions.
I offer both in-person and online appointments (by phone or video).
I aim to reply to all email enquiries within 3 working days, but if you require immediate help, please contact your local NHS urgent mental health helpline here