Making Every Session Count: Lessons from Our National Conference Presentation

Last April, Fazilah Shariff and Monica Sesma Vazquez had the incredible opportunity to present at the Association for Couple and Family Therapy National Conference, where we shared insights on an important question: How can therapists be most effective in just one session?

For those unfamiliar with the world of therapy, you might be wondering—is it even possible to make a meaningful impact in a single session? The short answer: Yes! And that’s exactly what we explored in our talk.

What is Single-Session Therapy?

Many people assume therapy requires long-term commitment—weeks, months, or even years of sessions to see progress. While ongoing therapy is beneficial for many, not every family or individual has the time, resources, or even the desire for long-term care. That’s where single-session therapy (SST) comes in.

SST is an approach designed to maximize the impact of just one conversation, helping people walk away with clarity, insight, and practical strategies they can apply immediately. It doesn’t mean the door is closed for future sessions, but rather that each session is treated as complete and meaningful on its own, rather than just a step in a long journey.

At the conference, we explored:
✅ How to build trust quickly – The first few minutes of any session are crucial. Therapists must create a space where clients feel heard and respected right away.
✅ Asking the right questions – Thoughtful, well-timed questions can help families and couples see their challenges from new perspectives.
✅ Focusing on strengths, not just struggles – Many people come to therapy feeling stuck. A strength-based approach helps highlight their existing resilience and abilities.
✅ Leaving clients with something tangible – Whether it’s a new perspective, a specific skill, or an action plan, clients should walk away feeling empowered.

Why This Matters

Not everyone needs or wants long-term therapy. Life happens—people face challenges like parenting struggles, relationship conflicts, or stressful life transitions, and they may just need one meaningful conversation to regain their footing.

For example, imagine:
👨‍👩‍👧 A parent struggling with their child’s behavior, needing guidance on how to reconnect.
💑 A couple facing communication challenges, looking for new ways to express their needs.
🧑‍💼 An individual feeling overwhelmed with stress, searching for immediate coping tools.

In these situations, a single session can be a game-changer. The goal is not to “fix” everything at once, but to provide relief, clarity, and direction—all in just one conversation.

The Power of Connection

One of the most rewarding aspects of presenting at this conference was connecting with fellow therapists from across the country. We heard from clinicians working in private practice, hospitals, schools, and community settings, all eager to refine their skills and better support the families they work with.

The discussions that followed our talk reinforced an important truth: therapy is evolving. People want accessible, effective, and flexible support—and therapists are finding innovative ways to meet those needs.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on this experience, we’re reminded of why we love this work. Whether it’s through conferences, workshops, or everyday practice, learning never stops—and that’s what makes this profession so meaningful.

For anyone curious about therapy, whether as a potential client or just someone interested in how it works, know this: You don’t have to have all the answers before seeking support. Sometimes, one good conversation is all it takes to start seeing things in a new light.