Sometimes people get overwhelmed with the number of appointment types Cardinal Point has to offer. This is understandable, especially if you have never done counseling. I have found that intake sessions need 75 minutes to be most successful. Beyond that, it largely depends on you. Below are some considerations when choosing an appointment time.
| Choosing Appointment Duration | |
| 50 Minutes Makes sense when you and your partner tend to be on the quieter side. Eighty-five minutes can be difficult to fill if you don’t like to or tend to spend a fair amount of time talking. These appointments are less expensive (but more expensive, minute by minute). Your schedule is tight, and even reserving 50 minutes is difficult. 75 Minutes While most clients do not choose this option, I generally find they are the most effective. Great for situations where you may have a long drive (some couples drive two hours between there and back for a 50-minute appointment). If you find that in 50 minutes, you get to the root of a problem, and then suddenly, “time is up.” If you need to find a babysitter for an appointment, this may be more effective with fewer, shorter appointments. If you are in a hurry to get results. You want discernment counseling. Saves money on a minute-by-minute basis. It is more of a commitment and prevents people from stopping therapy before they are truly ready. |
Clients don’t have to limit themselves to these options; each appointment doesn’t have to be the same length. Longer appointments may make sense in the beginning and shorten over time. Some clients find benefits in scheduling back-to-back appointments at first. I also advise people to consider the pros and cons of a package. You can always call if you have questions or schedule a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions. I wouldn’t schedule a prepaid package without a consultation to see if it’s a good fit.
