The length varies depending on your specific needs, the severity of your condition, and how quickly you respond to treatment.
However, CBT is generally designed to be a short-term and goal-oriented therapy.
- Short-term CBT (most common):
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- 6 to 20 sessions (weekly or biweekly).
- Average: 12–16 sessions for many common issues, like depression and anxiety.
- Can be as short as 4–8 sessions for mild cases.
- Longer-term CBT (for more complex issues):
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- 20+ sessions for severe or chronic conditions (OCD, PTSD, personality disorders).
- Some people continue maintenance sessions (monthly or as needed) after the initial therapy.
- Ongoing CBT (relapse prevention and skills maintenance):
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- Some choose to continue therapy on a long-term or as-needed basis for continued personal growth.
- Self-help CBT (journaling, apps, books) can help maintain progress after formal therapy ends.
Factors that affect CBT duration
- Your specific issue: Mild depression or anxiety may require fewer sessions, while OCD, PTSD, or personality disorders may take longer.
- How actively you participate: Doing homework and applying techniques speeds up progress.
- Therapist’s approach: Some CBT models, such as traditional CBT vs. schema therapy, take longer.
- Your personal goals: Some want to resolve a specific issue, while others use CBT for general emotional well-being.
