How Long Shoud Therapy for Depression Take?

I have been seeing a psychotherapist for nearly two years. Is that too long? How long does it normally take? Thank you, Angie

Ben's Answer:

Some people see a therapist for longer than that - 3, 5, even 10 years or more. This is totally a matter of what kind of therapy it is. Some forms of therapy are considered long term work. Others are very short - like 6-12 weeks.

Using therapies like Meridian Tapping/EFT - depression and many other issues can often be eliminated in a matter of a few sessions. Most therapists (myself included) use a variety of approaches, and the length of treatment just depends on the needs and preferences of the client. I have some clients who resolved the issues they originally came to me for, but ended up staying for over a year or two just because they like the therapy and it's a safe, sacred environment where they can work on their personal growth on an ongoing basis. You don't have to have something "wrong" with you to be in therapy.

But you should feel like you are getting some benefit from going to therapy. I believe, at least most of the time, you should feel better leaving a session than you did when you came in, (but this doesn't always have to be the case).

Best Wishes,
Ben Schwarcz, MFT
Santa Rosa Psychotherapist

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Guided Mindfulness Meditation for Depression