It depends.
But let’s break it down properly so you get a clear sense of what usually happens.
- Short-term (8–20 sessions)
If your depression is mild to moderate, and especially if it’s triggered by a life event (like a breakup, job loss, etc.), supportive therapy might last just a few months.
- Medium-term (6–12 months)
If your depression is more chronic or recurrent, therapy might extend over six months or longer.
You and your therapist would meet weekly or biweekly, and aim to build coping mechanisms, emotional resilience, and stabilize your mood over time.
- Long-term (1 year+)
If your depression is severe, treatment-resistant, or tied into complex life patterns (like trauma, ongoing life stress, or co-occurring mental health issues), supportive therapy can become part of long-term mental health management.
Think of it like ongoing physical therapy after an injury. It keeps you functioning, prevents setbacks, and gradually builds resilience.
A few important factors that influence therapy length
- Severity and duration of depression
More severe and longer-lasting depression usually needs more time.
- Life circumstances
If you’re facing ongoing stressors (like an unstable living situation, family conflict, or chronic illness), therapy might need to last longer to offer ongoing support.
- Goals for therapy
Therapy could be relatively short if your goal is symptom relief.
If your goal is serious, long-term personal growth, it’ll naturally take longer.
- Other treatments
You might need less time in individual supportive therapy if you’re also taking medication, doing group therapy, or using other supports.
- Therapist style
Some counselors work very goal-oriented and short-term, while others are more open-ended and relationship-based.
Supportive therapy isn’t always meant to be forever.
Ideally, it should move toward greater independence over time. A good psychotherapist will regularly check in with you to review progress and discuss when it might be time to reduce sessions or finish therapy altogether.
Studies indicate that about 50% of improvement from therapy happens within the first 8–10 sessions.
Nevertheless, full remission from depression often takes longer, particularly if it’s not your first episode.
