When looking for treatment, you’ll often encounter the terms psychotherapy and therapy. It can be confusing to know whether they mean the same thing. Are these just different words for identical practices? Let’s clarify the difference.
Psychotherapy vs Therapy
While psychotherapy and therapy are frequently used interchangeably, there is an important distinction to understand. Psychotherapy refers to a specific type of therapy, whereas therapy is a broad term that encompasses many different treatment approaches, including psychotherapy itself.
What Is Therapy?
Therapy is a general term that describes a variety of treatments aimed at improving health and well-being. Beyond mental health therapies like psychotherapy, it also includes physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and even animal-assisted therapy.
What Is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a specialized form of therapy focused on mental health. It includes a range of techniques and approaches, such as behavioral therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Often called “talk therapy,” psychotherapy centers on building a trusting relationship between the client and therapist. It is effective in treating mental health disorders, behavioral issues, trauma-related conditions, and substance use disorders.
Addiction
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Psychotherapy for PTSD and Trauma
In treating trauma and trauma-related disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder, psychotherapy is evidence-based and beneficial. However, there are multiple therapy methods that can be utilized. Some are outlined below.
EMDR
EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Individuals engage in bilateral stimulation (like eye movements) while revisiting traumatic memories to safely process the trauma.
CBT
CBT is cognitive behavioral therapy, a talk therapy method that focuses on thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By exploring one’s negative patterns and the impacts they have, individuals also practice replacing bad habits with positive alternatives.
ACT
ACT stands for acceptance and commitment therapy. This is a therapy practice that teaches individuals to accept the negative experiences they cannot control. At the same time, they accept these realities, they create goals and intentions for a more positive future.
Who Can Provide Psychotherapy?
Only licensed mental health professionals can provide psychotherapy. However, the list includes clinical counselors, therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers. At Aliya Veterans, we employ a staff of licensed and registered mental health professionals who are knowledgeable about trauma disorders. Not only do we provide psychotherapies, but we also treat our guests holistically so they improve their physical, spiritual, and mental wellness.
How To Help a Loved One with a Mental Health Issue
If you’re worried about your loved one’s trauma and mental illness, you’ve come to the right place. Royal Life Centers can help. We invite you to reach out to us on behalf of your loved one to learn how you can encourage their recovery.
