The 3 Simple Steps to Start Offering Therapy Intensives
Let’s make this easier than your brain is trying to make it. 😉
So many therapists I talk to are curious about offering intensives—but they get stuck before they ever begin. Maybe that’s you, too?
You’ve probably had the thought:
“This sounds amazing, but I don’t even know where to start.”
And I get it. The idea of redesigning your services, adjusting your schedule, and figuring out the logistics can feel… overwhelming. But the truth? It doesn’t have to be complicated.
In fact, there are really just three simple decisions that will get you moving.
First, pick a format. That’s it. Just decide what kind of container you want to offer. It could be a 3-hour EMDR session, a full-day intensive for couples, or even a weekend program. You don’t need to overthink it—you just need a starting point that fits your style and gives clients the space to go deeper.
Then, pick a price. And yes, I know pricing can feel tender. You want to be fair, accessible, and aligned with your values. You also want to be paid for the time, energy, and transformation you’re offering. So here’s your permission slip: start with a price that feels like a stretch—but not a strain. You can adjust as you go.
And finally? Pick a date. This is the part that makes it real. Find one day in your calendar that feels open enough to hold an intensive—and put it on the books. You don’t need a waitlist or a fancy launch. Just a clear offer and a willingness to see what unfolds.
Now, I know you may be thinking to yourself:
Seriously, Steffeny? Is this really all I need? That can’t be right.
Listen closely when I say this: you already know how to do therapy.
Offering your first intensive is kind of like cutting the cake in a different size. Instead of a 50-minute slice, you’re going for a 3-hour piece. That’s it. At its core, it’s still therapy. If you can offer a meaningful experience in 50 minutes, you can absolutely offer one in three hours.
Now, if you decide you want to do this more regularly—yes, we can absolutely talk about intensive-specific paperwork, policies, pacing, and all the nitty gritty details. But don’t jump ahead of yourself. Stay in this moment. Focus on one client who could benefit from more time and space.
Not sure which clients are a good fit for intensives?
✨ I’ve got you covered. Check out this blog: Signs That Intensives Are Right for Your Client
And if you’re ready to gently bring it up with someone you’re already working with…
👉 Grab my free script to invite current clients to consider a therapy intensive
It’s warm, ethical, and makes the invitation feel natural and easy.
Therapy intensives have completely changed my practice—and my relationship to the work. They’ve given me more freedom, more impact, and more ease. And I want that for you, too.
If you want a deeper look at how it all works (with examples, structure tips, and guidance for getting started), check out my free training:
🎓 Therapy Intensives 101: A Free Training for Therapists. It’s perfect if you’re curious about intensives and want to build something that feels good for you and your clients.
Your work is powerful.
Let’s give it the space it deserves.