Meaning & Definition of word "Psychotherapy"

Psychotherapy

/ˌsaɪ.kəʊˈθɛ.rə.pi/

noun:

  • 1. The treatment of mental or emotional disorders through psychological means, often involving conversation and other therapeutic techniques.
    • Example: She decided to seek psychotherapy to help cope with her anxiety.
  • 2. A form of therapy that focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors associated with mental health issues.
    • Example: He found that psychotherapy helped him understand the root causes of his depression.
  • 3. An approach employed by therapists to aid individuals in addressing personal problems and improving mental health.
    • Example: After several months of psychotherapy, his mood noticeably improved.
  • 4. A collaborative process between a therapist and a patient aimed at enhancing psychological well-being.
    • Example: Psychotherapy can involve various techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or talk therapy.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'psyche' meaning 'soul' or 'mind' and 'therapeia' meaning 'healing' or 'treatment'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

talk it out:

Discuss issues openly to work through problems.

take it to therapy:

To discuss personal issues with a therapist.

therapy session:

An appointment with a psychotherapist.

Related Words

psychologist:

A professional who studies mental processes and behavior.

psychiatry:

A branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating mental illnesses.

therapy:

Treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.

Slang Meanings of psychotherapy

Meaning: Headshrinking

Example Sentence: He said he was going to get some headshrinking to deal with his stress.

Meaning: Shrink

Example Sentence: She's been seeing her shrink for a few months now to work on her anxiety.