Does it work and how many sessions will I need?
Yes, it does work for the majority of clients, as evaluated by a reduction of symptoms like anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviours, drug dependency etc., Research suggests 6 – 20 sessions, after an initial meeting. Therefore, I recommend not less than 6, preferably 10 to start with followed by a review before deciding upon more. Therapy over months rather than weeks enables a deeper understanding of problems and for changes to be made with the support of a therapeutic relationship.
Clients who have long-term therapy tend to do better but 50% of clients do improve after 6 sessions (hence the NHS funding of 6 sessions in primary care) though it is not clear that this improvement lasts. Regular reviews enable the work to be focussed on individual needs and any problems arising. These are important because, as research has concluded, it is the relationship which is the 'active ingredient' in talking therapies and the matching of goals between the client and the therapist is beneficial to outcome and client satisfaction.
Can I have fortnightly sessions?
Initially, I wouldn't recommend this but it is possible, especially towards the end of the work. I would want to be aware of how this impacts on the work. I offer top ups and check ins after the sessions have finished thus keeping the 'door open'. Sessions of less than fortnightly can be arranged ad hoc, as I can't keep a regular day and time available.
Is the type of therapy important i.e. existential, person centred, integrative, CBT etc?
Interestingly, probably no, though most therapists, being loyal to the type of therapy they have trained and invested in, find this hard to accept. Rather it is their qualities, as a person, together with the commitment of the client that really matters.
If I'm on medication i.e. antidepressants etc., will I need to stop?
No and if your symptoms have been severe, you have probably been wise to start them as they do produce a faster initial response than psychological therapies alone. However, it is the long term use of them which can be problematic, especially when improvements on them do not last when they are stopped. Stopping them too can be difficult. Here I have some training in and experience of helping clients to come off medication. For more information see www.comingoff.com
The answers to these questions, where appropriate, are based upon research finding as presented in Essential Research Findings in Counselling and Psychotherapy: the facts are friendly (Cooper, M. 2008 SAGE London)