psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē 

: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or of related bodily ills by psychological means

psychotherapist

ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pist 

noun

Examples of psychotherapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Somatic therapy uses the mind-body connection as a type of body psychotherapy. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 8 May 2025

Studies show treatments are generally safe and that care has a positive impact on mental health, which psychotherapy alone cannot provide, experts said. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 2 May 2025

Cotard’s is usually managed through medications like anti-depressants, anti-psychotics and anti-anxiety drugs; and with cognitive behavioral therapy or psychotherapy. —Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Apr. 2025

Treatment options include medication and psychotherapy. —Ian H. Stanley, The Conversation, 17 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for psychotherapy

• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hydrotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• sclerotherapy
• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy
• radiotherapy

Kids Definition

psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē 

: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or of related bodily illnesses by psychological means

Medical Definition

psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē 

plural psychotherapies

1

: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or maladjustment by psychological means especially involving verbal communication (as in psychoanalysis, nondirective psychotherapy, reeducation, or hypnosis)

2

: any alteration in an individual's interpersonal environment, relationships, or life situation brought about especially by a qualified therapist and intended to have the effect of alleviating symptoms of mental or emotional disturbance