For a start, individuals can consider going for therapy once a week. Research suggests that weekly sessions allow regularity which is highly beneficial to clients, particularly at the beginning of the therapeutic journey.
Having regular weekly sessions develops one’s emotional safety (Cameron, 2018) and enables one to build trust and rapport with one’s therapist (Hall, 2020).
This allows one to progress at a steady pace and ensures that during sessions, more time can be dedicated to working through one’s issues, rather than filling the therapist in about the time that has elapsed. Moreover, weekly check-ins reduce the possibility of slipping into bad habits or becoming overwhelmed by unwanted thoughts and feelings.
In addition, research indicates that after attending an average of 8 sessions, individuals report the greatest decrease in psychological distress and are most likely to experience positive changes in their lives (Foundation Psychology; Saxon et al., 2016).
It may also be helpful to note that individuals who decide to withdraw within or just after 3 sessions are less likely to experience positive outcomes as things often start taking a turn for the better after the third session (Crago & Gardner, 2012).
Nonetheless, committing to therapy is an investment of both one’s time and financial resources. You may want to speak with your therapist and come up with a plan or schedule that works best for you.
