What Is a Single Session Consultation? A Flexible Approach to Mental Health Support

September 16, 2025
Professional psychotherapist working with patient in office, closeup By Stacy Coyle, PsyD When life feels overwhelming, getting started with therapy can seem like just another task on a growing to-do list. But sometimes, a single, focused conversation can be enough to shift perspective, gain clarity, or take the next step forward. That’s the idea behind Single Session Consultation (SSC), an evidence-based treatment approach developed by Dr. Jessica Schleider at the Center for Scalable Health at Northwestern University.   SSC is a flexible, goal-oriented approach that meets people where they are.  Whether you’re navigating a specific stressor or simply want space to share thoughts with a trained professional, SSC can be a meaningful and efficient option.

What Is a Single Session Consultation?

Single Session Consultation (SSC) is an evidence- based, structured, solution-focused model within the field of mental health that provides support in just one session. I like to think of it a bit like preventative urgent care for mental health.  By addressing an issue quickly and allowing the participant to make small, feasible, and meaningful next steps towards a goal that matters to them, we can provide quick relief, increase hopefulness, and potentially prevent symptoms from worsening. SSC is not about rushing the process or minimizing the value of long-term therapy. Instead, it recognizes that not everyone needs or wants ongoing treatment, and that meaningful change can begin in a single conversation. Key Characteristics of SSC:
  • Solution-Focused: Sessions center on what’s working and how to build on strengths.
  • Goal-Oriented: You and your therapist focus on a specific concern, decision, or challenge and, you walk away with a concrete action plan for working toward your goal.
  • Collaborative: Your therapist works with you to develop insight and next steps, within just one session.
  • Empowering: Clients leave with new clarity, a shift in mindset, or practical strategies to apply right away. 

Who Can Benefit from a Single Session Consultation?

The Single Session Consultation is especially useful for individuals who:
  • Are facing a tough decision or transition and want guidance from a mental health professional
  • Have a specific challenge (like work stress or parenting conflict) they want to talk through
  • Have encountered a difficult life event that is causing emotional distress
  • Are curious about therapy but unsure about committing to long-term treatment
  • Are on a waitlist for services and want short-term support in the meantime
  • Have completed formal therapy and would like a “check in” session
This approach can be beneficial for adults, adolescents, and even parents struggling with the demands of parenthood. With the Single Session Consultation, one session provides new direction, relief, and the confidence to move forward.

How to Make the Most of Your Session

To get the most value from Single Session Consultation, it helps to arrive with a specific goal or topic in mind. Ask yourself:
  • What’s one concern I’d like help thinking through?
  • What outcome would feel helpful by the end of the session?
  • Are there questions I want to ask or insights I hope to gain?
Your therapist will guide the conversation, helping you explore patterns, reflect on possibilities, and walk away with actionable steps and greater self-understanding.

How to Get Started with SSC

If you’re interested in learning more about SSC, you can read about it further HERE . The scheduling process is very efficient, no need for lengthy intake documents.  With SSC, you are able contact us either by text, email or phone call, and you will be scheduled quickly: within 48 business hours for either an in-person or virtual session. Single Session Consultations can be scheduled in-person in our Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, or New York City offices, or virtually from around the country. If you're ready to get started, or if you have more questions about SSC, feel free to reach out to us at: Text: 844-612-7213 Email: DCinfo@rosscenter.com  Call: 202-363-1010