National Psychotherapy Day 2023: What is the difference between psychotherapy, counselling

As the world observes National Psychotherapy Day 2023 on September 25, it's an opportune moment to delve into the realm of mental health care. Psychotherapy and counselling therapy are two vital tools in the quest for mental well-being, but what sets them apart and how do they function? We sat down with Psychiatrist Dr Nikunj S Gokani to unravel the difference between these therapeutic approaches and understand when to choose one over the other.

2 things you need to know

• Psychotherapy is for deeper, long-term self-awareness. Counselling, meanwhile, is solution-focussed.
• Psychotherapy delves into feelings while counselling tackles specific problems briefly.

Key differences

Dr Gokani began with highlighting the key differences: "The key differences between psychotherapy and counselling therapy lie in their depth and scope. Psychotherapy typically involves a deeper exploration of a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, often focusing on long-term change and self-awareness. Counselling therapy, on the other hand, tends to address specific issues or problems in a more short-term, solution-focused manner."

(Discovering the Path to Mental Wellness: Navigating Psychotherapy and Counseling | Image: Shutterstock)

Understanding psychotherapy

For those unfamiliar with psychotherapy, Dr Gokani provided clarity, saying, "Psychotherapy is a form of treatment that involves talking with a trained therapist to address emotional, psychological, and behavioural issues. It works by helping individuals gain insight into their feelings and behaviours, facilitating personal growth, and providing tools to manage challenges effectively."

Exploring different types psychotherapy

Dr Gokani went on to describe common types of psychotherapy and their respective approaches. "Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. Psychodynamic Therapy explores unconscious processes and past experiences to understand current emotional struggles. Humanistic Therapy emphasises self-actualization and personal growth. Gestalt Therapy encourages self-awareness and integration of thoughts, feelings, and action," he said.

Choosing the right approach

When it comes to choosing between psychotherapy and counselling therapy, Dr Gokani offered guidance. "Factors to consider include the severity of the issue, with psychotherapy being more suitable for complex, long-standing issues, while counselling can work for short-term concerns. Determine your goals—deep self-exploration (psychotherapy) or focused problem-solving (counselling). Ensure the therapist has the right expertise and specialisation. Finally, trust your personal preference; some individuals may naturally lean towards one approach over the other."

On National Psychotherapy Day, it's essential to recognise that both psychotherapy and counselling therapy play vital roles in supporting mental well-being, offering valuable options for individuals to find the assistance they need on their journey toward mental health and personal growth.