Defining Therapy and Counseling
Therapy and counseling are terms often used interchangeably, but they hold distinct meanings in the mental health field. At CBT Baltimore, we believe in helping our clients understand these differences to make informed choices about their mental health care.
Therapy: A Deeper Dive
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is a long-term process where clients work with a mental health professional to diagnose and resolve problematic beliefs, behaviors, relationship issues, feelings, and oftentimes physical responses. The idea behind therapy is to delve deep into problems, finding root causes and employing strategies to resolve them.
Therapists are trained to help with a wide range of issues, including deep-seated psychological problems, trauma, and chronic mental health issues. Therapy sessions might focus on past traumas and issues to understand how they affect current behavior.
Counseling
Oftentimes counseling and therapy are used interchangeably. That all depends on the intention of the user. Typically, in a psychotherapy relationship, the intention is to explore beneath the surface. An expedition to understand and learn about the myriad factors that made us who we are today. Counseling is reflective of its word, to counsel. To guide one through a particularly challenging situation. Digging beneath the surface may not be a requisite to get there.
Coaching
A better question, perhaps, is the differences between therapy and coaching. There is a far greater difference between coaching and therapy than between counseling and therapy. Not being an informed consumer can be costly.
Coaching may be therapeutic, encouraging, and inspiring. However, it is NOT clinical therapy. The requirements to become a certified coach are minimally inclusive of clinical education and training. The path to becoming a coach is short in duration and limited in clinical content. Coaching CAN be valuable. There are many talented coaches. Let’s be clear though: coaches are NOT therapists and not all therapists are coaches.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between therapy and counseling depends on your individual needs. If you’re dealing with deep-seated psychological issues or long-term mental health concerns, therapy might be the better option. However, if you’re looking to resolve more immediate, situational challenges, counseling could be more appropriate.
At CBT Baltimore, we offer both therapy and counseling services. We believe in tailoring our approach to fit the unique needs of each individual.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re considering therapy or counseling, CBT Baltimore is here to help. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in choosing the path that’s right for you.
To learn more about our services or to request a session, please visit CBT Baltimore or contact us at (443) 470-9815. Remember, the journey towards better mental health starts with you taking the first step.