What about brief therapy?

Sometimes it is the right choice, but there are important issues to consider.
Brief therapy works well for many people, but it is not appropriate for all people or all types of problems. Sometimes a therapist can help individuals or families change very quickly. A few visits can be helpful, for example, if you are dealing with a temporary crisis or specific, well-defined problem. However, complex, long-standing problems may need more time.

Therapists generally work with their clients in determining the approach and pace of therapy. As an informed consumer, you should ask your therapist about what to expect about the length of treatment, how to tell if you are on the right track and how you will know when it is time to end treatment. The most important consideration is how well your personal goals are met.

Many insurance and managed care companies now encourage almost everyone to use a very brief therapy lasting only a few sessions. If you have experienced brief therapy without feeling satisfied in the outcome, a longer-term therapy may be prove helpful. 

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