How Long Does Therapy Take — and How Will I Know It's Working?

If you've ever started therapy (or thought about it), you've probably wondered:
"How long is this going to take?"

It's a fair question. Therapy is an investment — of time, energy, money, and emotional openness. But unlike fixing a broken appliance, healing doesn't come with an estimated delivery date. The process moves at the pace of your nervous system, your readiness, and your life story.

There's No "Average" Therapy Timeline

Some people start to feel noticeable changes within a few months. Others — especially when working through old trauma, deep patterns, or long-term stress — may need more time.

That's because therapy isn't just about "understanding things." It's about rewiring how your body and mind respond to life. In integrative body-psychotherapy, that means helping your nervous system find more balance and safety. It's a process that can't be rushed — but it can bring profound and lasting change.

Small Signs That It's Working

Progress in therapy often shows up quietly at first. You might not even notice it right away — until you realize something that used to send you spiraling now feels... manageable.

Here are a few subtle signs that therapy is working:

• You breathe more easily in stressful situations.
• You start to notice your emotions instead of avoiding them.
• You find yourself setting boundaries or speaking up with less fear.
• You recover faster after something upsetting.
• You begin to feel more present, grounded, and compassionate toward yourself.

Sometimes, you might actually feel worse before you feel better. That doesn't mean therapy isn't working — it often means your system is processing old emotions or memories that have been held for a long time. It's part of the healing arc.