Why is a counselling “hour” 50 minutes long?
A counselling “hour” is typically 50 minutes long so that the psychologist has time to take necessary file notes (which are kept after each counselling session, in order to keep track of issues discussed, pertinent history, progess that has been made, goals that have been set, and homework that has been assigned) and conduct other necessary paperwork for the client. It also allows the psychologist to have a few minutes to prepare for their next client. In addition, having a 50 minute hour helps to protect client confidentiality, as it helps to prevent clients meeting in the waiting room.
