How Many Sessions Do I Need?

One of the most frequent questions I hear at Behavioural Edge Psychology is, "How long will this take?"

It is a fair question! Starting therapy is a big step and knowing what to expect (both in terms of time and cost) is crucial. The truth is, there is no magic number, but I can give you a clear framework based on the latest research and, importantly, the Australian financial context.

The short answer? Most people benefit significantly from a focused course of 6 to 12 sessions. However, your unique goals and the kind of support you need will ultimately decide the journey.

The Two Key Questions That Determine Your Timeline

The duration of your therapy typically comes down to two major factors: your goal and your funding.

Your Goal: Symptom Relief vs. Deep Change

Are you aiming for a quick 'fix' for a specific problem, or are you looking to rebuild the foundations of how you operate?

Goal	Session Count	Focus & Rationale
Short-Term (Crisis or Skills-Based)	6 to 12 sessions	You want to manage a specific, recent problem (e.g., a phobia, a recent breakup, or situational anxiety). The focus is on learning Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) skills to manage symptoms now.
Medium-Term (Complex Issues)	12 to 20+ sessions	You have long-standing issues, moderate depression/anxiety, or have experienced complex trauma. You need time to not only learn skills but also to identify and change deep-seated behavioural and emotional patterns.
Long-Term (Deep Growth)	Months to Years	You are seeking deep personal growth, emotional regulation skills (like DBT), or want to explore patterns stemming from childhood (Psychodynamic Therapy). This is about rebuilding core self-worth, not just managing symptoms.

Your Funding: The Medicare Factor

In Australia, the number of sessions is often heavily influenced by the Medicare Better Access initiative.

With a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from your GP, you are eligible for a rebate on up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year. For many, this block of 10 sessions becomes the default treatment length, even if more support might be clinically beneficial.

• Note: As of July 1, 2025, the rebate for a psychologist is $98.98 and for a for a 50+ minute session, subject to change.

Because the Medicare rebate often does not cover the full session fee, you will pay a "gap" (out-of-pocket amount). This financial consideration is a key factor in how long people choose to stay in therapy.

Check out my fees and client information page for more information.

Finding the Right Frequency: Weekly, Fortnightly, or Monthly?

How often you see your psychologist should depend on where you are in your journey. I often recommend a ‘tapering’ approach to build momentum and then transition to independence.

Weekly Sessions: Starting Strong (The Gold Standard)

• When: The first four sessions or during a period of acute crisis/distress.

• Why: Weekly consistency is critical for building rapport and momentum. It allows you to quickly learn new tools, process difficult emotions, and prevents you from spending half the session just catching up on what happened since your last visit.

Fortnightly Sessions: The Active Work Phase

• When: The middle stage of therapy, after you have established some basic skills.

• Why: A two-week break gives you essential real-world practice. You need time to evaluate your new coping strategies, fail, and succeed, and then bring that valuable data back to your next session.

Monthly Sessions: Maintenance and Check-Ins

• When: The final stage of your plan, or for long-term support.

• Why: Monthly sessions act like a tune-up. You are managing well on your own, but these sessions help to reinforce positive changes, catch early signs of relapse, and ensure you stay aligned with your values.

A common strategy to get the most out of the Medicare rebate: Many clients choose a schedule like four weekly sessions (for momentum), followed by four-six fortnightly sessions (for practice), and then two-four monthly sessions (for review and consolidation). this spreads 10 sessions across approximately two to four months and offers flexibility based on client needs.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Starting therapy is an investment in yourself, your relationships, and your future. Our goal at Behavioural Edge Psychology is to make that journey as clear, focused, and effective as possible.

I believe therapy works best when it is collaborative, and that begins with clear expectations. I am ready to discuss your goals and help you create a plan that fits your life and your budget.

Book your consultation today and let us discuss your personal timeline for change.