Brief therapy

Brief therapy is a focused form of support that works within a smaller number of sessions and concentrates on the change a person wants to make now. Sessions often identify strengths, clarify a goal and agree practical steps, while still making space to understand the concern and what has already helped.

What sessions may involve

Agreeing a focused aim, noticing resources and reviewing small changes over an agreed, limited number of meetings.

What it may suit

May fit a defined current concern or a person who prefers a time-limited piece of work.

Delivery and fit

A shared focus and regular review matter. It may be less suitable when someone wants open-ended exploration or needs specialist care.

Evidence and uncertainty

Brief therapy describes a format rather than one method, so evidence depends on the model used and the presenting concern.

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