How to Maximize a Single Session? From a Reflection on Theoretical Pluralism to the Definition of Five Goals

Abstract

Single-session therapy (SST) is a kind of intervention that aims to maximize the effectiveness of each individual therapy session, which may often prove to be the only session. For this reason, it is essential to identify the goal to be reached by the end of the session. However, this may be limited by the lack of a precise theoretical framing for SST. This article will illustrate a framework known as “theoretical pluralism” within which the use of SST can be placed. This will be followed by the proposal of a possible mode of intervention that can help therapists answer the question: “How can I help the patient achieve the goal of this session?”