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

The relationship between a patient and therapist is pivotal in shaping the outcome of psychotherapy, but researchers also point to other factors that are not always considered in studies. —Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 10 Dec. 2024

In psychotherapy, for example, a mental health professional talks with the patient to identify troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and to help address them. —IEEE Spectrum, 27 Nov. 2024

Treatment typically includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 30 Nov. 2024

Treatments for sweating blood can include managing medical issues, beta-blockers to help stop the sweating, and psychiatric medications and psychotherapy. —Michael Menna, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

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