
<strong>Short-Term vs. Long-Term Counselling</strong>
[caption id="attachment_33041" align="aligncenter" width="595"] A smiling woman listens to the advice of a consultant psychologist sitting on a sofa in the workshop.[/caption]Thomas Goenczi,Lookout contributor Therapy has many different avenues Some find themselves immersed in a years-long investigation into themselves. Others come across obstacles seemingly impossible to overcome and need immediate guidance. Both long-term and short-term counselling support psychological and emotional well-being. However, beyond the obvious, there are distinct differences in how these accomplish your goals. By understanding the differences, you better equip yourself for your therapeutic journey, knowing and choosing what your path is going to provide you with the optimal potential for success. Both methodologies are therapeutically effective. Let’s distinguish the two by analyzing how they would treat a client living with social anxiety. Short-term counselling Short-term counselling is considered anything less than fifteen sessions, often done in close succession to one another. Common reasons why someone would seek short-term counselling are: for a reduction in symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction); guidance during a mental illness episode; developing techniques and practices for mental health; and working through interpersonal strife (family, friends, lovers). Short-term therapy has a precise aim and is most effective with an intense focus. Common modalities under the short-term counselling umbrella are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Solution-Based Focus Therapy. Short-term counselling may focus on reducing and managing anxiety in a social setting through emotional and cognitive techniques. Furthermore, the counsellor and the client would identify maladaptive behaviours, develop positive ones, and reinforce them. Due to the intensity, a counsellor may ask clients to complete work outside of counselling. The short-term approach looks to combat the issue in a formulated manner. Long-term counselling Long-term counselling, also known as psychotherapy, is typically over fifteen sessions and usually finds its completion after a year or more;...











