Difference_Between_Counsellor_and_Psychotherapist

1.1 Analyse the principal distinctions between psychotherapy and counselling. Although counselling and psychotherapy are similar in the way that they are both ‘talking’ treatments with someone who is professionally trained to listen, they also have their differences. Counselling, for example provides clients with the opportunity to discuss specific issues and difficulties they may be experiencing. Psychotherapy, however, is usually used to deal with deep-rooted issues, such as traumatic past experiences, which are causing the client problems in their present life. In practice, psychotherapy and counselling overlap - both can help with personal problems and support the individual through difficult times. Here are some of the principal differences and similarities - distinctions which are tendencies, not cast iron rules: ▪ Counselling generally focuses on a specific life problem. It is not intended to be long-term, nor to go as deeply as psychotherapy, which tends to deal with more complex personal issues, having the potential to bring about really profound changes and the healing of old wounds. ▪ Counselling can examine the way we communicate with each other, helping us to become more clear and direct with what we want to say - for instance learning to be angry without blaming or to ask for what we need rather than expecting our needs to be guessed. ▪ The counselling process can help you feel more in control of your life and do something yourself about what isn't right for you, rather than feeling helpless and frustrated. ▪ In counselling, as in psychotherapy, a growing awareness is what brings about the possibility of transformation. Choice comes with self-responsibility. Counselling and Psychotherapy are often considered to be interchangeable therapies that overlap in a number of ways. Counselling, in specific situations, is offered as part of the psychotherapy process; whereas a counsellor may work with clients in a psychotherapeutic manner. The key difference between the two courses of therapeutic communication treatment lies in the recommended time required to see benefits. Counselling usually refers to a brief treatment that centres around behaviour patterns. Psychotherapy focuses on working with clients for a longer-term and draws from insight into emotional problems and difficulties.