Therapist (Mental Health)

A therapist is a healthcare professional who provides mental or physical treatment, working with an individual or group to address problems related to psychology, emotion, or behavior. The English equivalent term is "therapist", and in French "thérapeute".

Therapy is not a single profession. It encompasses psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, social workers, and practitioners in physical therapy or speech therapy. The distinctions depend on education, professional licensure, and treatment methods used.

Duties and Responsibilities

Work typically begins with assessment: the therapist interviews the client, gathers medical and social history, and then develops a treatment plan. Sessions are held at set intervals, usually weekly, and employ various methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, or emotion regulation training.

Ethics and Confidentiality

Professional codes in many countries require therapists to protect client confidentiality, obtain informed consent, and avoid personal relationships that compromise the work. Exceptions exist when there is risk to life, and some legal systems require reporting to authorities in such cases.

Licensure and Training

Many countries require a university degree, supervised training hours, and a licensing examination before someone may use a professional title. Requirements and titles for licensure vary considerably from country to country.