Clinical psychologist London W1

When... people start to feel better, and how long therapy takes

People can overcome some problems and feel better without therapy.  But even for simple problems, 15 sessions of therapy can get you the same improvement as 2 years without therapy.  And for more complex problems a therapist can be even more useful.  Across problems, 50% of clients in studies get to "meaningful change" after 9 sessions and recovery after 13 to 18 sessions. Acute symptoms can take about 5 sessions to change but chronic symptoms can take 14 or more.  Similarly, Panic Disorder can take as few as 6 sessions, but other diagnoses take more.  So the 8 to 12 sessions often offered by the NHS may not be enough.  On the other hand, after the initial gains, progress in therapy generally slows, so when you seem to be getting nowhere, it's time to stop, or at least take a break until you feel ready to continue the journey. A good therapist should give you an estimate of how long it will take to reach your goals, and at what point you could usefully take a break.

When's the best time to start therapy

Start therapy when you've tried self-help and help from friends.  If these haven't worked for you, then it's better to start therapy sooner than later, to get over your problems before they get bigger or mess up more of your life.  Contrary to dogma, therapy can help at any age but the earlier you start the more time you'll have left to enjoy the benefits.   On the other hand if you're too busy now, then you won't be able to give therapy the time it deserves.  So wait until you can spare an hour a fortnight for a therapy session and a few minutes a day to do something about your problems. If you're in an emergency, contact your GP or the Samaritans for support, and get a therapist as soon as possible.

When am I available?

I work between 8am and 7pm at 115a Harley Street.  You can contact me anytime on my mobile: +44(0)7971 597331.  If I don't answer, leave me a message or send me a text.  I'll get back to you within 24 hours of receiving the message.

Contactable at: +44(0)7971 597331, or at info@jeremyslaughter.com