As a client, it is absolutely okay to discuss your preferences and needs regarding the duration of therapy sessions with your therapist. Therapists understand that each client is unique and may have different preferences and requirements when it comes to session length.
While the standard therapy session duration is typically around 50 minutes, it's not set in stone, and therapists may be open to accommodating shorter sessions if it works for both you and the therapist. Many therapists are willing to adjust session lengths based on their clients' preferences and therapeutic goals.
Here are some steps you can take to address this with your therapist:
Express your preference: Let your therapist know that you feel more comfortable with shorter sessions and that you don't often need a full 50 minutes to cover what you want to discuss.
Discuss your reasons: Explain why a shorter session duration would work better for you. This might be due to time constraints, concentration levels, or simply feeling that you can cover what you need in a shorter time frame.
Inquire about the possibility: Ask your therapist if they are open to conducting shorter sessions and if they are willing to adjust the session duration accordingly.
Negotiate fees (if necessary): Since therapy fees are often based on time, you may want to discuss with your therapist the possibility of adjusting the session fee to reflect the shorter duration. Some therapists may be open to charging a pro-rated fee for shorter sessions.
Remember that open communication is essential in the therapeutic relationship, and your therapist should be understanding and considerate of your needs. They may also provide their professional perspective on whether shorter sessions would be suitable for your therapeutic progress. However, if they believe that longer sessions are necessary for your treatment, it's essential to be receptive to their recommendations and work together to find a balance that suits your needs and therapeutic goals.