Guide

How Long Does Therapy Take?

Most people notice something shifting within four to six weekly sessions. A defined problem (a decision, a phase of stress, a specific fear) usually takes 6 to 12 sessions; depression and anxiety disorders 12 to 20; OCD 12 to 20 sessions of ERP; complex trauma or long-standing patterns six months to a year or more. If nothing has changed by session six, the plan is reviewed, not continued unchanged.

Dr Vohra's · Updated

Typical lengths by problem

Sessions are usually weekly at first, then spaced out as things improve. These are ranges, not promises; your psychologist will give you a plan after the first session.

ProblemUsual number of sessionsApproach
Stress, a decision, a transition6 to 12Counselling, REBT
Panic disorder, specific phobia6 to 12CBT with exposure
Generalised or social anxiety12 to 16CBT
Depression, mild to moderate12 to 20CBT, interpersonal therapy
OCD12 to 20ERP
Insomnia4 to 8CBT-I
PTSD8 to 16Trauma-focused CBT
Complex trauma, personality patterns6 to 12 months or longerPhased therapy, DBT, schema-informed work
Couples8 to 20Couples therapy

What speeds therapy up

  • Doing the between-session tasks
  • Keeping the weekly rhythm; gaps lose momentum
  • Being specific about what you want to change
  • Telling the therapist when something is not working
  • Treating sleep, alcohol or medication issues alongside

When therapy and medication go together

For moderate to severe depression, OCD and some anxiety disorders, therapy plus medication works faster and better than either alone. At Dr Vohra's a psychologist can bring in a psychiatrist without a new referral.

Frequently asked questions

What if I do not feel better after a few sessions?
Say so. By session six there should be some change; if not, the approach, the goals or the therapist may need to change, and that is a normal part of therapy.
Is online therapy slower?
No. Trials of video CBT show similar timelines to in-person therapy.
How do I book at Dr Vohra's?
Call or WhatsApp +91 99992 49223, email help@drvohras.com, or use the contact form. In person at 29/24, East Patel Nagar, New Delhi 110008, or online across India.
What if this is an emergency?
Call Tele-MANAS 14416 or KIRAN 1800-599-0019 (24x7, free) or 112. Dr Vohra's is not an emergency service.

Book a consultation

Call +91 99992 49223, email help@drvohras.com, or visit us at 29/24, East Patel Nagar, New Delhi 110008. Online consultations are available across India in English and Hindi.

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If you are in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, call Tele-MANAS 14416, KIRAN 1800-599-0019 or Emergency services 112. Tele-MANAS and KIRAN are 24x7 and free anywhere in India. Dr Vohra's is not a crisis or emergency service.

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