Counselling, Therapy and Psychotherapy…What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever looked into support for your mental health, you’ve probably noticed terms like counselling, therapy, and psychotherapy being used interchangeably. It can feel confusing, but in the UK, the lines between them aren’t as clear-cut as some might think.
Therapy: A Broad Term
In the UK, “therapy” is not a protected term, which means anyone can use it. You’ll see it applied to a wide range of practices from physical therapies like physiotherapy to massage or beauty treatments.
So when someone says they offer therapy, it doesn’t automatically mean they are a mental health professional. That’s why it’s important to check their credentials and ethical oversight if you’re looking for support with emotional or psychological well-being.
Counselling & Psychotherapy:
Mostly Overlapping
Counselling and psychotherapy are broad terms that refer to various forms of talking therapy. They both involve working with a trained professional to gain insight into yourself and your relationships with others. Therapists provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgement.
There are many different ways therapists work. Some stick to a single approach, while others blend techniques from several methods to suit your needs. You can read more about this in the BACP’s guidance here.
What Really Matters:
Ethics, Training, Supervision, & Connection
Because the terms can be confusing, the most important things to consider when choosing a counsellor, therapist, or psychotherapist are:
Ethics and Professional Membership: Check that your practitioner belongs to a recognised professional body, like the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) or UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy). This means they follow professional standards and codes of practice.
Training and Competence: Make sure they’ve had proper training and experience in mental health work relevant to your needs.
Supervision: Ethical practitioners engage in regular clinical supervision to reflect on their work and ensure safe practice.
The Connection with Your Mental Health Professional: Perhaps most importantly, you need to feel heard, understood, and supported. A strong working relationship is key to meaningful change.
Choosing the Right Support
When looking for support, ask about their training and professional membership. Consider your goal, whether you want support for a specific challenge or deeper exploration of patterns and experiences. Pay attention to how you feel with them, as connection matters as much as credentials.
No matter the label, counselling, therapy, or psychotherapy, the quality of the relationship, professionalism, and ethical practice are what make the real difference.
Final Thoughts
In the UK, counselling and psychotherapy are largely overlapping, and therapy can mean many things. Labels matter less than the ethics, training, supervision, and connection your mental health professional brings to the work. Reaching out for support is a brave and positive step, and choosing someone you can trust and connect with is what really counts.
