A common question is what is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy and how can I decide which I need. As an integrative therapist I use both approaches and work with clients based on their needs to come up with the right blend together.
Whilst there is no set definition and different therapists may have differing views, in general counselling is a shorter term more solution focused approach whereas psychotherapy is a deeper exploration and longer term.
Counselling typically focuses on specific issues or challenges. It is often solution-oriented, providing clients with strategies and tools to manage immediate concerns. Common reasons people seek counselling include:
Coping with stress or anxiety
Navigating relationship difficulties
Adjusting to life transitions such as moving, career changes, or grief
Counsellors help clients develop practical skills and build resilience. The emphasis is often on the present and the near future, with sessions structured around achievable goals. For example, a client experiencing workplace stress might work with a counsellor to identify stressors, explore coping mechanisms, and develop an actionable plan to create balance.
Psychotherapy: A Deep Dive into the Psyche
Psychotherapy, on the other hand, is a longer-term process that delves deeper into a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with a more open ended exploratory approach. It often explores the root causes of psychological issues, including past experiences, unconscious patterns, and deeply held beliefs. Psychotherapy is beneficial for addressing more complex or chronic mental health concerns, such as:
Depression
Anger management
Trauma and PTSD
Addiction and substance use
Personality disorders
Gender, sexuality and Identity issues
Childhood and familial impacts
The therapeutic relationship in psychotherapy is key to fostering self-awareness and personal growth. Psychotherapists use a variety of evidence-based modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or existential therapy, tailored to the client's unique needs. Unlike counselling, psychotherapy often involves an exploration of the past to understand how it influences present behaviors and emotions.
For clients, the choice between counselling and psychotherapy depends on their specific needs, goals, and circumstances. I work to help clients understand these options and determine which approach aligns with their journey.
In either approach the relationship with the therapist is key. Finding a therapist that you can feel open with, not judged and who can foster a connection that helps self-examination ensures that therapy can yield real long term benefits.
It is also worth noting that the line between counselling and psychotherapy can blur, as many practitioners integrate elements of both to provide holistic care. Regardless of the approach, the ultimate goal remains the same: to support clients in achieving greater well-being and fulfillment.
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