The Quick Therapy That Actually Works Research into brief, single-session therapeutic interventions, both digital and in-person, suggests they can be effective in reducing anxiety and depression in young people. These short programs aim to give individuals a sense of control and a plan to cope with problems, potentially offering a more accessible and affordable alternative to traditional, long-term psychotherapy. While promising, experts note that these brief interventions may be more suitable for simpler problems or as a first step, rather than for severe mental illnesses.

• Project Personality, a digital activity created by Jessica Schleider, uses stories and neuroscience explainers to help 12-15 year olds manage anxiety.
• Schleider’s research found that a single session with a similar program reduced depression and anxiety in young people.
• The goal is to see if brief interventions can offer the same benefits as traditional, costly psychotherapy.
• While some quick fixes carry risks, Schleider’s lab focuses on proving the effectiveness of their programs.
• Single-session interventions, ranging from 5 to 90 minutes, could be deployed in schools or pediatricians’ offices.
• Meta-analysis shows single-session interventions for children and teens can significantly improve symptoms, particularly anxiety and behavioral problems.
• Other researchers have found benefits in brief exposure therapy and interventions that increase hope and life purpose.
• Experts suggest shorter-term therapy may be more effective for simpler issues like smoking cessation or weight loss, rather than severe mental illnesses.
• The challenge lies in convincing patients and doctors that significant change can occur in short sessions.
• Brief interventions aim to help participants become ‘helpers’ for their peers, increasing intrinsic motivation.
• Therapy, even brief, helps individuals gain an outside perspective on their problems.