Under 15 Minutes

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Typically achievable

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• Simple prescription renewal

 

Possible when

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• Treatment is stable & no medication changes are needed

• No significant side effects or major life stressors

• The patient has a naturally concise communication style​​

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Example

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Sarah is doing well on her current medication. After a quick check-in, there is no need to change her prescribed medications right now. She can easily explain her symptoms and how the medication is working, and she has no questions.

15-30 Minutes

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Typically achievable

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• A brief progress check, minor changes to an existing plan and prescriptions

 

Possible when

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• A single, clear, minor issue or concern is present

• No major life stressors have occurred recently

• Regular, short check-ins are beneficial for maintaining progress

• The patient prefers a targeted and concise discussion​

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Example

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Sarah has felt more anxious since her last visit. We talk about how her ADHD medication affects her sleep and mood, and agree to make some minor changes to her medications to help her feel more balanced and settled. Submitting an appointment planning form helped her identify what to focus on, and she explained her symptoms clearly without getting sidetracked.

31-45 Minutes: Focused Review

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Typically achievable

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• An in-depth discussion of one main priority, or a brief review of two key areas.

• Key areas may include: 

  • Medication adjustments after reviewing symptoms and treatment effects

  • Strategies such as pacing, anxiety/mood management, sleep, or boundaries

  • Completing a brief document or form based on symptom review

 

Possible when

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• You need time to reflect without rushing

• You can prioritise one or two key areas to focus on

• You're comfortable leaving some topics for later sessions

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Example

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Sarah wants to review the impact of her ADHD medication on her anxiety and energy, as it's affecting her work performance and job security. We focus on how her symptoms change during the workday and briefly examine her sleep and eating habits. Together, we adjust her medication schedule and discuss pacing strategies to try before our next session. We agree to discuss other topics on her list during a future appointment.

46-60 Minutes: Detailed Review

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Typically achievable

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• A comprehensive review of multiple areas, such as medication, mood, anxiety, sleep, physical health or life stressors. 

• This usually involves a combination of psychotherapy, neuroscience, medications and practical strategies to implement between sessions.

 

Possible when

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• There are several issues that can be addressed together

• You have a naturally detailed communication style

• You value detailed explanations or prefer having time to reflect and process information

• You often need time to feel ready to explore deeper topics in each session

 

Example

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Sarah has noticed several worrying changes in her functioning since her last appointment. We discuss her medication, mood, anxiety levels, sleep quality, and recent challenges with parenting and relationships. She values having time to talk in detail, ask questions, and understand the reasons for recommended changes. We adjust her medication, talk about how stress affects her symptoms, and create practical strategies she can use in the coming weeks.

61-75 Minutes: Comprehensive Review

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Typically achievable

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• In-depth exploration that links symptoms, stressors, and underlying factors

• Integrated plan that includes medications, therapy strategies, and lifestyle supports

 

Possible when

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• You prefer a spacious, unhurried review that allows time to connect the dots

• Several aspects of your care are changing or interacting at once

• You’d like to explore both the medical and psychological aspects of your wellbeing in one session

• You naturally communicate in a detailed manner and prefer to cover all topics on your list

• You need a few short breaks mid-session to support focus and emotional regulation. 

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Example 

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Sarah is nearing a stable medication plan. Recently, we’ve examined how her early life experiences impact her current patterns. The session is calm and allows for deep reflection, with short breaks to help her stay regulated. We develop an integrated plan covering medication changes, therapy strategies, and lifestyle support, ensuring she understands both the medical and psychological aspects of her care.