For most people, therapy means one hour a week. But life does not pause between sessions. Difficult conversations, anxious nights, unexpected triggers and moments of doubt rarely wait for your next appointment. That is why I offer short check-ins between sessions, and why many of my clients say it is one of the most helpful parts of our work together.
In this article I explain what between-session support is, why it can help, what it is not, and how it works in practice.
The gap between sessions
A lot happens in a week. You might have a breakthrough in a session on Monday, then by Thursday find old patterns creeping back. You might be practising a new boundary and feel unsure whether you handled a situation well. Or you might be recovering from a painful relationship and face a wave of longing late at night. Without support, these moments can feel isolating, and the progress made in sessions can be harder to hold on to.
What between-session support looks like
With my clients, between-session support is agreed together at the start and usually involves:
- Short WhatsApp or phone check-ins to share how a situation went, ask a quick question or get a reminder of a technique.
- Worksheets and exercises tailored to you, so you can keep working on what we explored in the session.
- Gentle accountability for the small goals you set, such as practising a grounding exercise or holding a boundary.
- Encouragement during hard moments, such as the first weeks after leaving a relationship or early days of recovery from addiction.
Why it can help
It keeps momentum going. Change happens through practice in everyday life. Small nudges between sessions help new skills become habits more quickly.
It reduces isolation. Knowing someone is in your corner can make difficult moments feel more manageable, particularly for people who have experienced controlling or abusive relationships where they felt alone.
It builds confidence. Reporting back on a boundary you held or a craving you rode out helps you notice your progress and celebrate it.
It makes sessions more focused. Because small issues are addressed along the way, our weekly time can be spent on deeper work.
What between-session support is not
It is important to be clear about boundaries, because they keep the work safe and effective for both of us. Between-session check-ins are short and supportive. They are not a replacement for full therapy sessions, and they are not an emergency or crisis service. Messages are answered within agreed times rather than instantly. If you are ever at risk of harm, the right step is to call 999 or contact a crisis line such as Samaritans on 116 123.
Who it can be especially helpful for
- People recovering from narcissistic or emotionally abusive relationships, especially when tempted to make contact
- Anyone working on addiction, including sex or porn addiction, where cravings can arise at any time
- Couples practising new ways of communicating at home
- People with anxiety who are gradually facing situations they have been avoiding
- Anyone going through a major life change or a period of high stress
How it works with Calm Mind
All my sessions take place online by Zoom, seven days a week from 7am to 8pm UK time, with WhatsApp video or phone available if you prefer. Between-session check-ins are arranged by agreement, and we decide together what will be most useful for you. Many clients tell me this support is what helped them keep going when things felt hardest.
Book a free 30-minute chat to find out more
Frequently asked questions
Is between-session support included in the fee?
We can talk through how this works, including monthly packages, during your free chat.
How quickly will you reply?
We agree response times at the start so you know what to expect. Check-ins are not an emergency service.
Do I have to use it?
Not at all. Some clients use check-ins often, others rarely. It is there to support you, not to add pressure.
Take the first step
If you would like support that does not stop when the session ends, click here to choose a time for your free chat, or visit calmmindtherapyservices.co.uk.
Natalie Jane, Calm Mind Therapy Services