When Shortcutting Therapy Isn’t Realistic
When Rapid Therapy Isn’t Realistic
Some therapy models promise results in as few as one to three sessions by “shortcutting” the change process. However, experts argue lasting improvement requires time, effort and repetition that condensed treatments lack.
Red Flags of Shortcut Therapy
Claims to resolve deep-seated issues rapidly often raise doubts, so look out for:
- Unrealistic Outcomes – Promises of a “permanent fix” in just 1-3 sessions for complex problems like addiction, trauma and anxiety
- Reduced Focus – Shortcut therapies may place less focus on identifying root causes, developing coping skills and making lasting lifestyle changes.
- Lack of Follow Up – Without proper follow through and booster sessions, any initial changes from shortcut therapy may not sustain over time.
Why Longer Treatment is Often Needed
Resolving psychological issues and entrenched behaviors requires:
- Time – Identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns takes time and repetition.
- Practice – Developing and cementing new coping skills and habits requires consistent effort and practice over weeks or months.
- Support – Ongoing guidance, accountability and troubleshooting help maintain progress beyond initial breakthroughs.
Risks of “Fast Fix” Models
Potential dangers of shortcut therapies include:
- Disappointment – Clients may feel let down when rapid changes don’t materialize or maintain. This can diminish trust in therapy.
- Relapse – Without addressing root causes and developing adequate coping strategies, initial progress is at risk of undoing itself.
- Exacerbating Issues – Minimal focus and preparation in shortcut therapy can potentially worsen long-term outcomes.
In conclusion, while short-term therapy or shortcutting modalities have value when appropriately matched, fully “resolving” complex psychological issues in just a few sessions is unrealistic for most clients. Consequently, therapy time frames require proper tailoring to individual needs – not “one size fits all” models. Prioritizing expediency over proven change processes risks overlooking what’s truly required for lasting improvement.
Dr Carla is a licensed therapist in rapid transformational therapy. Don’t hesitate to ask about any concern.
