The Best Silent Timer for Therapy Sessions: A Must-Have for Every Therapist’s Office
My go-to silent timer, the Time Timer MOD, for keeping sessions on track without disrupting the vibe.
Every therapist knows that where you place the clock matters. Keeping track of time in therapy sessions can be surprisingly tricky. A quick glance at the clock can break the flow of a session or most importantly, my focus. I’ve found myself avoiding checking the time during meaningful moments, which results in guessing the pace with only moderate accuracy. Alarms or buzzing timers? Too disruptive. Vibrating smartwatches? Not helpful if I can’t glance at them. That’s why I’m sharing one of my favorite Amazon finds that completely changed how I manage session time: a silent color timer that’s calm, subtle, and surprisingly grounding.
Why a Silent Timer in Session is a Must-Have for Therapists
Whether you’re running a private practice, offering online therapy, or seeing clients in person, staying attuned to the time without interrupting the therapeutic process is crucial. Traditional timers can be jarring, and constantly checking your phone or wall clock pulls you out of the moment.
This silent visual timer uses a color cue to signal when time is passing, so you can stay fully present while still pacing your session. No sounds, no stress, just a peaceful way to help both you and your clients stay on track.
The back of the Time Timer MOD includes a silent mode switch, making it perfect for therapy environments.
How I Use It in My Practice
I keep the timer in my line of sight behind my tissue box. I set the color to start counting down 5 minutes early, pick up my client in the lobby, and begin the session. I spot check at the 30 minute mark to insure we have plenty of processing time. I spot check the color one more time before the session ends to give me a gentle cue to start wrapping up, without rushing or shifting the tone. When the timer runs out, I have peace of mind knowing I have time left before the start of the next session.
Another color version of the Time Timer MOD silent timer I use to keep therapy sessions flowing smoothly and on time.
Now I can stay fully engaged, knowing I’ll be gently reminded when it’s time to shift gears, and the flow of therapy sessions becomes predictable for my clients too.
Benefits of the Silent Timer
Silent and visual- no beeping and easy to see from a distance
Modern design- fits perfectly in a cozy therapy office and comes in a variety of colors
Reduces anxiety- helps both therapist and client feel grounded
No more time-blindness- great for anyone needing visual cues outside of sessions-ideal for kids, neurodivergent clients, or anyone who benefits from visual structure to complete tasks.
Where to Find It
I bought the Time Timer MOD on Amazon here . I chose the MOD version for its quieter, more modern design which looks great in my therapy office and doesn’t distract clients. It’s affordable, aesthetically pleasing for my mid-century modern style, and incredibly helpful in a private practice setting.
If you’re building your therapy office setup or just looking to streamline your session time management, this is one of the best tools I’ve found.
My Final Thoughts
As therapists, we’re constantly balancing presence with practical boundaries. This timer has helped me stay connected while still honoring the clinical hour, and making sessions feel smooth and intentional.
If you try it, let me know how it works for you! I love connecting with other therapists about tools that make our work a little more easeful.
About the Author
Lauren Garrett, LCSW, is a therapist and founder of Fresh Off the Sesh—a practice and creative mental health space rooted in normalizing self-exploration, storytelling, and finding joy in the tools that help us grow. She blends clinical insight with an intuitive, down-to-earth approach to therapy, and loves curating cozy, intentional spaces for healing and reflection. When she’s not with clients or working on a creative project, you’ll find her listening to podcasts, dreaming up her next idea, or thinking about new ways to support people on their journey.
Curious about working together? Click here to learn more about my therapy services.
