Psychotherapy or Counselling

Let me try to define and then differentiate psychotherapy and counselling. A brief definition shall cover the two as they both interact and create a therapeutic relationship with a person or group of people with problems that may affect their way of thinking, emotions or behaviour. They both use their knowledge of theory of personality and their main goal is to help the person reach a well balanced and improved way of thinking, emotions and behaviour. 
Now let me try differentiating the two:

Psychotherapy

Long term therapy session applies due to complexity or severity of the issues. They are associated in the medical setting and are often  our Clinical Psychologist and Counselling Psychologist. They refer the person as a Patient. The approach to therapy is facilitative. Issues that may require psychotherapy are: anxiety and depression, post traumatic stress disorder, anger management, alcohol and drugs, grief and loss etc.

Counselling

Short term therapy sessions, normally two or three. only. Traditionally works in school or guidance clinic. They are associated with educational and social work setting. They are Counsellors and Social Workers. They refer the person as a Client and the approach is educational and Informative. Issues that may require counselling are: career or vocation, migration settlement, dating, housing issues, financial issues, weight management etc.

In spite of the overlap, Psychotherapist functions as a Counsellor and some Counsellor may perform therapy to a client, this however, will depend on the Counsellor's experience and skill developed overtime as part of their professional development. 


Please feel free to comment or ask any questions. Alternatively, click here to book for an appointment or ring 0401 531 351 or email Christina@soundmindcounselling.com.au


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