Single Session Therapy, also known as Brief Therapy, One at a Time Therapy, or ONEplus™ Therapy, offers a focused approach designed to address a specific issue or a couple of issues in just one session.
It’s an ideal option for tackling a particular challenge without the need to commit to longer-term counselling. While structured as a one-off session, additional appointments can be arranged if needed. Many clients opt for a brief follow-up session a few weeks later, should anything new arise that they’d like to explore further after the initial session.
HOW SINGLE SESSION THERAPY WORKS
Research shows that sometimes, one or two therapy sessions can be enough to help someone feel “unstuck” and ready to move forward. SST works on the premise that the first session could also be the last, though there’s always the flexibility to continue if further support is desired.
During an SST session, we’ll work together on a key issue identified by you and focus on finding a solution. The session is highly goal-oriented, helping you leave with a plan of action to implement in your day-to-day life. It’s less about dwelling on the past and more about taking practical steps toward change.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM SINGLE SESSION THERAPY?
SST can be particularly useful if you:
- Have a specific issue that could be addressed in a focused, solution-driven way.
- Want to explore therapy but aren’t ready or able to commit to regular sessions.
- Would like immediate support for a particular challenge, such as managing stress, making a difficult decision, or addressing anxiety around life changes.
- Prefer to build on your existing strengths and skills, rather than revisiting the root causes of problems.
If you’re unsure whether SST is right for you, please book a discovery call so we can discuss this further.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN A SINGLE SESSION THERAPY APPOINTMENT
Each SST session lasts up to 75 minutes. During this time, we’ll focus on the issue you feel is most important to address. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear idea of the next steps you can take to move forward.
A follow-up session, typically lasting 30 minutes, is recommended three to four weeks after your initial session to review progress and provide further support if needed.
If, after the session, you feel you’d benefit from more therapy, there’s no obligation to stick to just one session. Some clients choose to book occasional check-ins or transition into regular 50-minute therapy sessions.
IS SINGLE SESSION THERAPY RIGHT FOR YOU?
SST might be a good fit if:
- You have a clear goal or decision you want to work through.
- You’re feeling overwhelmed but aren’t sure you need long-term therapy.
- You’ve tried regular therapy before and now want something more immediate or solution-focused.
- You want to leave with a concrete plan for addressing a specific issue.
SST is designed to be action-oriented, focusing on achievable steps you can take after just one session.
However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth exploration of long-term issues, I recommend face-to-face, Walk and Talk, or online sessions.