Exploring the difference between psychotherapy and counselling
"What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy?" – is a question frequently asked by new clients, and it's understandable. To a therapist, there are technical nuances, but to you, the customer, the variance may seem subtle. The contrast between counselling and psychotherapy hinges on your objectives, the duration you wish to invest in therapy, the nature of the issues that present, and how deeply you wish to delve into your personal journey.
Counselling
According to the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), counselling is characterized as: "a secure and confidential collaboration between qualified counsellors and clients to promote mental health and wellbeing, enhance self-understanding, and resolve identified concerns. Clients actively participate in the counselling process at every stage."
Think of counselling as a relatively shorter process, typically spanning 6 to 10 sessions. It's suitable when you have a specific issue, like a recent relationship breakdown, that requires attention but may not require an in-depth exploration.
Psychotherapy
PACFA defines psychotherapy as: "the comprehensive and intentional engagement between therapist and client for the healing, growth, or transformation of emotional, physical, relationship, existential, and behavioural issues, or of chronic suffering, through well-founded relational processes. The aim of psychotherapy is to support increased awareness and choice, and facilitate the development, maturation, efficacy, and well-being of a client."
In psychotherapy, we venture deeper. We examine patterns of behaviour, delve into your beliefs and thought processes, explore how past experiences influence your present behaviour, and scrutinize your interactions with others. Root causes of recurring problems, including body symptoms or relationship issues, may be revealed . This process acknowledges that these issues took time to form within you, so naturally, it takes time to understand, connect the dots, and establish new patterns. The journey ranges from around 6 sessions to many, focusing on personal development and transformation.
What does it mean for you as a client?
When therapy works effectively, you and your therapist engage in conversations about your goals, the aspects you wish to explore, and the time you're willing to commit to your personal development. It's a collaborative effort, tailored to your needs.
My approach typically reveals the deeper levels of an issue, exploring hidden needs and may support you to reach goals fairly quickly. However, it is best not to put pressure on healing work. There are many factors that may be explored, and it is a dynamic process. In some respects, it is best to approach therapy with an open mind and take each step as it comes. The process of therapy is a journey with no set length.
So, let's begin our conversation. What challenges are you facing? How are you suffering, and what would you like to achieve? At this stage, does this feel like a short-term issue or something you’re wanting to explore more deeply? What markers will signify success to you? What changes in your life would demonstrate progress?
Let's embark on this journey together, addressing your unique goals and aspirations and see where it leads.