Often, during my first or second session with a client, this question comes up. Can we get this problem sorted out in a few weeks, or will I have to be in therapy forever?

For someone who hasn’t been to therapy before, it makes tremendous sense to search for a way to orient themselves within the process. There tends to be plenty of anxiety around starting treatment, and seeking a frame of reference around time is a reasonable starting point.

As a therapist, I try to avoid being too smug with my reply. While it is true that “every situation is different,” that isn’t an entirely satisfying answer. So, with the caveat that every client is different, every therapist approaches this work differently, and every situation is unique, here is a general therapeutic timeline that I’ve seen occur with many of my clients over the past ten years.

Fast-Acting, Phase I: Duration 6-8 Weeks

The beginning stage of therapy often produces positive, tangible results. Simply entering into therapy means the client is ready for support and something to change. The therapist provides immediate support and relevant information and establishes themselves as a positive resource, which gives the client confidence that things can improve. This stage often includes substantial amounts of psychoeducation and the introduction of relevant skills.

The Middle Passage, Phase II: Duration 4-6 months

The middle stage of therapy is the longest and “least exciting.” The most acute symptoms have been reduced enough to give more space for deeper, more persistent themes to enter into the space. The relationship with the therapist has been developed, and the client is doing a lot of the work “on their own,” coming up with insights into their life, with the therapist setting a tone and providing consistent support and encouragement. New skills may be sprinkled within this phase, but it often is more about helping the client explore themselves in a meaningful, healthy way. External life drama may decrease with increased attention on the inner life.

Finishing Up, Phase III: Duration 8-12 weeks

Something has shifted! The problems that felt intractable may not have disappeared, but they are taking up way less space. The client’s life develops with fresh emotional experiences, work opportunities, and social relationships. In this phase, clients often report significant changes that seemed to have happened organically, without special effort. Whatever challenges restricting the client initially have been integrated enough to make way for new things. It’s a time to celebrate the gains, reflect on the process, and wish each other well.

This is a broad template and one that I’ve seen in my particular style of practice. Some therapists provide brief therapy (up to 3 months), while others have clients they have seen for many years. Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Find the therapist that fits you best, and I’m sure you’ll develop your own therapy timeline that will suit you well.

Marcus Berley is a Self Space Seattle therapist who works with high-achieving people who want to access the deeper areas of their lived experience, including individuals who struggle to fully enjoy their success and couples who struggle to address conflict and cultivate a more intimate connection.

How long does therapy last?