Can you see a therapist just one time?

Apr 7

Quick answer: yes! Single-session therapy (SST) was first introduced - formally - in the 1980s and 1990s by psychologist Dr. Moshe Talmon. Since then, the research backs it up — SST has been shown to have positive outcomes in up to 70% of cases for things like depression, anxiety, and life stress (Houwen et al., 2023).

Longer answer: Whether it’s a breakup, burnout, anxiety about a big decision, or just needing to feel seen and supported — you shouldn’t have to wait until things get worse to talk to someone. We call this point-of-need rather than point-of-appointment-availability.

What does an SST Session look like?

You and your therapist will go into the session with the shared understanding that this will be the only session — which makes it very intentional, collaborative, and efficient.

It’s not rushed. It’s not surface-level. It’s purposeful and directive care.

✨ You walk in (or in this case, log on) with a clear issue or question

✨ Your therapist asks focused, thoughtful questions

✨ Together, you explore what’s really behind the block

✨ You reflect on past wins and inner strengths

✨ You leave with a plan, a shift, or even just a new sense of direction

✨ At AVOCO, we send a personalized Session Takeaway Packet to your email within 24 hours of your appointment time. It will include a written snapshot of your session, relevant resources, handouts, and worksheets to help you stay on track.

What happens after?

SST encourages reflection and follow-through. You’re guided to:

1. Reflect on what came up

2. Notice any connections to other areas of your life

3. Try something new based on the insights

4. Give it space

5. Decide if more support would help

And yes — you can come back. SST is designed to be helpful in one session, but you’re always welcome to booster sessions and additional full SST sessions.

According to Professor Windy Dryden, one of the leading experts in SST, it’s:

“A purposeful endeavor where both parties set out with the intention of helping the client in one session — knowing more help is available if needed.”

Your AVOCO therapist (or Relationship Coach) will talk to you about your options at the end of your session and will reiterate your options in your Session Takeaway Packet.

Our Top 5 Favorite Things About SST?

✨ You don’t need a months-long commitment to get support

✨ It respects your time and energy

✨ It’s affirming, empowering and collaborative

✨ It helps you make moves and lets you sit in the feels (healthy emotional processing, let’s goooo)

✨ You can get care on the day you want it. No waitlists, no waiting for a call-back… just easy and available scheduling.

Final Thoughts

SST isn’t a shortcut — it’s a new lane. One that trusts your ability to grow, holds space for exactly what you need, and lets you tap into care without the long wait or pressure to commit forever.

If you’re craving clarity, feeling overwhelmed, or just want to feel more grounded before your next big step — consider booking a session! It could be a turning point.