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Psychotherapy

Definition

Psychotherapy is a general term for treating mental health problems by talking with a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health provider. It's also known as talk therapy, counseling, psychosocial therapy or simply therapy.

Analogy

Imagine psychotherapy as having a personal trainer but for your mind. Just like how trainers help you work out your muscles to get stronger physically, therapists help you work through emotional challenges to become mentally stronger.

Related terms

Psychiatrist: A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses.

Psychologist: A professional specializing in diagnosing and treating diseases of the brain, emotional disturbance, and behavior problems.

Counseling Psychology: A psychological specialty that encompasses research and applied work in several broad domains including counseling process and outcome; supervision and training; career development; prevention; health psychology; multiculturalism etc.