The Difference

The Difference

COUNSELOR / PSYCHOTHERAPIST / THERAPIST

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

What’s the difference? Not much!

In the past therapy connoted a more intense form of treatment for serious mental health problems. Presently, however, it is common practice for these terms to be used interchangeably. Some professionals may refer to themselves as therapists, others as psychotherapists, still another as counselor. All three could be using the same basic theoretical approach, or all three could be using very different approaches.

For example one counselor’s approach may be to listen, then give statements of affirmation, while another counselor may tend to listen, then confront, rather than affirm. Both may call themselves counselors, but their approach may be very different.

For more infomation about speciifc differences take a look at the “Compare” page. There you will find a brief description of the types of counseling professionals and some ideas regarding how to choose the best professional for you.