HEALTH: How Long Does It Take for Therapy to Work?

Let's take five minutes to see this week in a new light.

By Wendy Rose Gould
& Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief

Top of Mind

How Long Does It Take for Therapy to Work?

Going to therapy can feel overwhelming, nerve-wracking, or even a bit scary. Be that as it may, it's an incredibly important step toward a healthier you and a happier future.

Sessions can help you better understand who you are today, allow you to explore existing coping techniques, and create new pathways of behavior. But when does therapy start working, and how long should you prepare to attend sessions?

Attending therapy is a clear sign that you're committed to leading your life with a healthier and happier mindset."

— Nina Westbrook, LMFT

When You'll Start To See Change

With therapy, there's no one-size-fits-all plan. We all require different therapeutic approaches, find ourselves drawn to different types of therapists, and experience therapy sessions in different ways. That said, some people can begin to see the positive impact of therapy as soon as their very first session.

For others, it can take time to ease into the process and open up with their therapist. Once you're able to work past that discomfort, though, you should begin seeing small benefits and eventually bigger changes in your day-to-day life, relationships, and mental well-being.

How Long to Stay in Therapy

At the beginning of your therapy, you and your therapist will establish goals to work through in your sessions. You may even create a flexible timeline together to determine how long it makes sense to continue attending sessions. This timeline varies for everyone, ranging from as little as a couple months to a year or longer.

One thing to note is that therapy is rarely meant to go on for years with no end in sight. The purpose of therapy is to equip you with an arsenal of tools that'll allow you to independently navigate life's ups and downs.

On the Bright Side

Ways to Stay Positive This Week

Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body

This week, take 15 minutes to research therapists in your area and reach out to one or two that seem like a fit. Each therapist has their own approach and areas of expertise; seek someone whose approach and experience resonates with you.

Inspired by leading cognitive-behavioral therapy, Think Presently mindfulness bracelets are engraved with positive affirmations that come with reminders to lean into the present moment for reduced anxiety and stress.

Moving Sand Art breathes movement and life into any space. The kinetic sand features an array of designs and colors that shift with the elements to create unique and mesmerizing art.

This Week on the Verywell Mind Podcast

On tomorrow's episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I talk with decluttering expert Tracy McCubbin. Tune in to hear her advice about how to make space for happiness.

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