What Is Single Session Therapy?

Single Session Therapy (SST), also known as Single Session Thinking, is an evidence-based approach within mental health and family therapy. It’s designed to deliver effective, goal-oriented support within just one meeting, making therapy more accessible for those who may find traditional, longer-term models difficult to commit to due to time, cost, or availability. SST operates on a simple but powerful principle: meaningful change can occur in a single, well-structured session.

How Does Single Session Therapy Work?

In SST, the therapist and client work collaboratively to define the focus of the session, identify goals, and develop a clear action plan. The approach integrates methods from solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and crisis intervention, while maintaining a client-centred focus.

Each session follows a structured process, although in practice SST draws on a broader set of elements and skills outlined by established frameworks such as the Bouverie Centre’s ten core elements of single session work:

1. Beginning - Define the problem and agree on a specific, achievable goal.
2. Middle - Explore strengths, resources, and strategies for immediate solutions.
3. End - Summarise key insights, confirm actions, and plan possible follow-up if required.

Unlike longer-term therapy, SST does not rely on multiple appointments or in-depth assessments. Instead, it encourages both therapist and client to make the most of one meaningful encounter, focusing on what can be achieved today.

Why Is Single Session Therapy Important?

SST plays a crucial role in expanding access to mental health services and reducing waiting lists. It’s widely used in walk-in clinics, schools, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), as well as in community and crisis response settings.

Clients benefit from the solution-focused nature of SST, leaving sessions with practical tools, a renewed sense of control, and the confidence to handle challenges independently. Studies consistently report high client satisfaction, with many participants finding a single session sufficient to gain clarity and direction.

This approach empowers individuals, builds self-efficacy, and reframes therapy as an empowering, strengths-based partnership rather than a prolonged process.

FAQs About Single Session Therapy

How long is a single session therapy?

Most SST sessions last around 50 to 60 minutes. They are designed to maximise value and focus within this timeframe.

What is the meaning of a single session?

A “single session” means each meeting is treated as complete in itself, offering actionable outcomes without assuming ongoing commitment.

What is a single session intervention?

It’s a brief, structured therapeutic encounter aimed at addressing immediate needs and building practical strategies for mental wellbeing.

SST aligns closely with approaches such as Solution Focused Brief Therapy, which also emphasise collaboration, strengths, and goal-driven conversations. This compatibility allows practitioners to integrate SST principles into a wide range of clinical and community settings without relying on long-term treatment models.

At Compass Seminars Australia, we offer Single Session Therapy workshops and training designed for health and education professionals who want to make every session count. Our SST training helps practitioners develop the confidence and skills to provide efficient, compassionate, and results-focused support, empowering both clients and professionals alike.