Question

Do therapists keep sessions at a specific time or do they sometimes go overtime and end early other days?

Answer 1

Therapists typically aim to keep sessions within a specific time frame, usually 45 to 50 minutes for individual therapy sessions. This standard duration allows for efficient scheduling and ensures that the therapist can effectively manage their caseload while maintaining their own well-being.

There are several reasons why therapists try to adhere to a consistent session length:

1. Time Management: Therapists often have back-to-back appointments scheduled throughout the day. Sticking to the agreed-upon time ensures that they can accommodate all their clients and provide each one with the necessary attention and care.

2. Predictability and Consistency: Having consistent session lengths creates a sense of predictability and routine for both the therapist and the client. This structure can be essential for clients who benefit from a regular schedule.

3. Professionalism and Boundaries: Respecting the agreed-upon session length is part of maintaining professional boundaries in the therapeutic relationship. It shows respect for the client's time and reinforces the therapeutic structure.

4. Fairness to Clients: If a therapist consistently goes overtime with one client, it may lead to feelings of unfairness or neglect in other clients who adhere strictly to the agreed-upon time.

While therapists generally aim to keep sessions on time, there can be exceptions. In some cases:

• Overtime: If a particular session necessitates more time to address a critical issue or crisis, therapists may choose to extend the session beyond the usual duration to ensure the client's safety and well-being.

• Ending Early: On occasion, a session might end a few minutes early if the client and therapist have reached a natural conclusion to the discussion or if the client does not have any additional concerns to address at that moment.

Overall, therapists strive to maintain a balance between sticking to the agreed-upon schedule and being flexible when necessary to address the client's needs effectively. It's essential for therapists and clients to communicate openly about scheduling preferences and any specific time constraints they may have.