What is the difference between a “therapist” and “counsellor”?
From the book – Chapter 2: Psychology, Psychiatry and Counselling
What is the difference between a “therapist” and “counsellor”?
It depends on the country. In some places “counsellor” is used for shorter, problem-focused help and “therapist” for deeper work; in others they mean the same thing. The best approach is not to worry about the title but to ask these questions:
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What is your training and qualification?
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Are you registered or licensed with a professional body?
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What kind of problems do you usually work with?
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What type of therapy do you use, and how long does it usually take?
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What are your fees, and how do cancellations work?
A good professional will answer these openly.
Read the full chapter – Chapter 2: Psychology, Psychiatry and Counselling
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Shloks
- Bhagavad Gita 14.5 – Sattva, rajas, and tamas — qualities born of material nature (prakriti) — bind the eternal soul to the body, O mighty-armed Arjuna.
- Bhagavad Gita 4.34 – Know that by approaching with respect, by questioning, and by service. Those who see will teach you.
More on this topic: What is mental health? A simple guide to the mind and who can help
More questions
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- Who can prescribe psychiatric medicines?
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- When should someone seek professional mental health help?
- What is true: clinical psychologists typically…?
- What is true: counselling is most helpful for…?
- Psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor – what is the difference?
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