== Definition ==

== Definition ==

'''Psychotherapy''' is the treatment of mental and emotional disorders through the use of psychological techniques designed to encourage communication of conflicts and insight into problems, with the goal being relief of symptoms, changes in behavior leading to improved social and vocational functioning, and personality.  

'''Psychotherapy''' is the treatment of mental and emotional disorders through the use of psychological techniques designed to encourage communication of conflicts and insight into problems, with the goal being relief of symptoms, changes in behavior leading to improved social and vocational functioning, and personality.  

==Etymology==

==Etymology==

''[[Psychotherapy]]'' is an [[English words of Greek origin|English word of Greek origin]], deriving from Ancient Greek ''psyche'' meaning "breath; spirit; soul" and  ''therapia''("healing; medical treatment").  

''[[Psychotherapy]]'' is an [[English words of Greek origin|English word of Greek origin]], deriving from Ancient Greek ''psyche'' meaning "breath; spirit; soul" and  ''therapia'' ("healing; medical treatment").  

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, ''psychotherapy'' first meant "[[hypnotherapy]]" instead of "psychotherapy". The original meaning, "the treatment of disease by ‘psychic’ [i.e., hypnotic] methods", was first recorded in 1853 as "Psychotherapeia, or the remedial influence of mind".  The modern meaning, "the treatment of disorders of the mind or personality by psychological or psychophysiological methods", was first used in 1892 by [[Frederik van Eeden]] translating "Suggestive Psycho-therapy" for his French "Psychothérapie Suggestive". Van Eeden credited borrowing this term from [[Daniel Hack Tuke]] and noted, "Psycho-therapy … had the misfortune to be taken in tow by hypnotism."<ref>'''[[Oxford English Dictionary]]'', online edition, 2004, s.v. '''psychotherapy'''.</ref>

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, ''psychotherapy'' first meant "[[hypnotherapy]]" instead of "psychotherapy". The original meaning, "the treatment of disease by ‘psychic’ [i.e., hypnotic] methods", was first recorded in 1853 as "Psychotherapeia, or the remedial influence of mind".  The modern meaning, "the treatment of disorders of the mind or personality by psychological or psychophysiological methods", was first used in 1892 by [[Frederik van Eeden]] translating "Suggestive Psycho-therapy" for his French "Psychothérapie Suggestive". Van Eeden credited borrowing this term from [[Daniel Hack Tuke]] and noted, "Psycho-therapy … had the misfortune to be taken in tow by hypnotism."<ref>'''[[Oxford English Dictionary]]'', online edition, 2004, s.v. '''psychotherapy'''.</ref>

Fadul, J., Canlas, R. (2009). ''Chess Therapy''.</ref> At that time in Europe, serious [[mental disorders]] were generally treated as demonic or medical conditions requiring punishment and confinement until the advent of moral treatment approaches in the 18th Century. This brought about a focus on the possibility of psychosocial intervention - including reasoning, moral encouragement, and group activities - to rehabilitate the "insane".

Fadul, J., Canlas, R. (2009). ''Chess Therapy''.</ref> At that time in Europe, serious [[mental disorders]] were generally treated as demonic or medical conditions requiring punishment and confinement until the advent of moral treatment approaches in the 18th Century. This brought about a focus on the possibility of psychosocial intervention - including reasoning, moral encouragement, and group activities - to rehabilitate the "insane".

[[Psychoanalysis]] was perhaps the first specific school of psychotherapy, developed by [[Sigmund Freud]] and others through the early 20th century. Trained as a neurologist, Freud began focusing on problems that appeared to have no discernible organic basis, and theorized that they had psychological causes originating in childhood experiences and the unconscious mind. Techniques such as [[dream interpretation]], [[free association]], [[transference]] and analysis of the [[id, ego and superego]] were developed. Starting in the 1950s [[Carl Rogers]] brought [[Person-centered psychotherapy]] into mainstream focus. Many theorists, including [[Anna Freud]], [[Alfred Adler]], [[Carl Jung]], [[Karen Horney]], [[Otto Rank]], [[Erik Erikson]], [[Melanie Klein]], and [[Heinz Kohut]],  built upon Freud's fundamental ideas and often formed their own differentiating systems of psychotherapy. These were all later categorized as ''[[psychodynamic]]'', meaning anything that involved the [[Psyche (psychology)|psyche]]'s [[conscious]]/[[Unconscious mind|unconscious]] influence on external relationships and the self. Sessions tended to number into the hundreds over several years.

[[Psychoanalysis]] was perhaps the first specific school of psychotherapy, developed by [[Sigmund Freud]] and others through the early 20th century. Trained as a neurologist, Freud began focusing on problems that appeared to have no discernible organic basis, and theorized that they had psychological causes originating in childhood experiences and the unconscious mind. Techniques such as [[dream interpretation]], [[free association]], [[transference]] and analysis of the [[id, ego and superego]] were developed. Starting in the 1950s [[Carl Rogers]] brought [[Person-centered psychotherapy]] into mainstream focus. Many theorists, including [[Anna Freud]], [[Alfred Adler]], [[Carl Jung]], [[Karen Horney]], [[Otto Rank]], [[Erik Erikson]], [[Melanie Klein]], and [[Heinz Kohut]],  built upon Freud's fundamental ideas and often formed their own differentiating systems of psychotherapy. These were all later categorized as ''[[psychodynamic]]'', meaning anything that involved the [[Psyche|psyche]]'s [[Consciousness|

conscious]]/[[Unconscious mind|unconscious]] influence on external relationships and the self. Sessions tended to number into the hundreds over several years.

[[Behaviorism]] developed in the 1920s, and [[behavior modification]] as a therapy became popularized in the 1950s and 1960s. Notable contributors were [[Joseph Wolpe]] in South Africa, M.B. Shipiro and [[Hans Eysenck]] in Britain, and [[John B. Watson]] and [[B.F. Skinner]] in the United States. [[Behavioral therapy]] approaches relied on principles of [[operant conditioning]], [[classical conditioning]] and [[social learning theory]] to bring about therapeutic change in observable symptoms. The approach became commonly used for [[phobias]], as well as other disorders.

[[Behaviorism]] developed in the 1920s, and [[behavior modification]] as a therapy became popularized in the 1950s and 1960s. Notable contributors were [[Joseph Wolpe]] in South Africa, M.B. Shipiro and [[Hans Eysenck]] in Britain, and [[John B. Watson]] and [[B.F. Skinner]] in the United States. [[Behavioral therapy]] approaches relied on principles of [[operant conditioning]], [[classical conditioning]] and [[social learning theory]] to bring about therapeutic change in observable symptoms. The approach became commonly used for [[phobias]], as well as other disorders.

During the 1950s, [[Albert Ellis (psychologist)|Albert Ellis]] originated [[Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy|Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)]]. A few years later, psychiatrist [[Aaron T. Beck]] developed a form of psychotherapy known as [[cognitive therapy]]. Both of these included generally relative short, structured and present-focused therapy aimed at identifying and changing a person's beliefs, appraisals and reaction-patterns, by contrast with the more long-lasting insight-based approach of psycho-dynamic or humanistic therapies.  Cognitive and behavioral therapy approaches were combined and grouped under the heading and umbrella-term [[Cognitive behavioral therapy]] (CBT) in the 1970s. Many approaches within CBT were oriented towards active/directive collaborative empiricism and mapping, assessing and modifying clients core beliefs and dysfunctional schemas. These approaches gained widespread acceptance as a primary treatment for numerous disorders. A "third wave" of cognitive and behavioral therapies developed, including [[Acceptance and Commitment Therapy]] and [[Dialectical behavior therapy]], which expanded the concepts to other disorders and/or added novel components and [[mindfulness (psychology)|mindfulness]] exercises. Counseling methods developed, including [[solution focused brief therapy|solution-focused therapy]] and [[systemic coaching]].

During the 1950s, [[Albert Ellis (psychologist)|Albert Ellis]] originated [[Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy|Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)]]. A few years later, psychiatrist [[Aaron T. Beck]] developed a form of psychotherapy known as [[cognitive therapy]]. Both of these included generally relative short, structured and present-focused therapy aimed at identifying and changing a person's beliefs, appraisals and reaction-patterns, by contrast with the more long-lasting insight-based approach of psycho-dynamic or humanistic therapies.  Cognitive and behavioral therapy approaches were combined and grouped under the heading and umbrella-term [[Cognitive behavioral therapy]] (CBT) in the 1970s. Many approaches within CBT were oriented towards active/directive collaborative empiricism and mapping, assessing and modifying clients core beliefs and dysfunctional schemas. These approaches gained widespread acceptance as a primary treatment for numerous disorders. A "third wave" of cognitive and behavioral therapies developed, including [[Acceptance and Commitment Therapy]] and [[Dialectical behavior therapy]], which expanded the concepts to other disorders and/or added novel components and [[mindfulness (psychology)|mindfulness]] exercises. Counseling methods developed, including [[solution focused brief therapy|solution-focused therapy]] and [[systemic coaching]].

[[Postmodern]] psychotherapies such as [[Narrative Therapy]] and [[coherence therapy|Coherence Therapy]] did not impose definitions of mental health and illness, but rather saw the goal of therapy as something constructed by the client and therapist in a social context. [[Family therapy|Systems Therapy]] also developed, which focuses on family and group dynamics—and [[Transpersonal psychology]], which focuses on the spiritual facet of human experience. Other important orientations developed in the last three decades include [[Feminist therapy]], [[Brief therapy]], [[Somatic Psychology]], [[Expressive therapy]], applied [[Positive psychology]] and the [[Human Givens]] approach which is building on the best of what has gone before.<ref>Corp, N., Tsaroucha, A., &  Kingston, P.  (2009). Human Givens Therapy: The Evidence Base. ''Mental Health Review Journal, 13'',4. pp. 44–52.</ref>  A survey of over 2,500 [[United States|US]] therapists in 2006 revealed the most utilized models of therapy and the ten most influential therapists of the previous quarter-century.<ref>The Top 10: The Most Influential Therapists of the Past Quarter-Century. ''Psychotherapy Networker.'' March/April, 2007.</ref>

[[Postmodern]] psychotherapies such as [[Narrative Therapy]] and [[coherence therapy|Coherence Therapy]] did not impose definitions of mental health and illness, but rather saw the goal of therapy as something constructed by the client and therapist in a social context. [[Family therapy|Systems Therapy]] also developed, which focuses on family and group dynamics—and [[Transpersonal psychology]], which focuses on the spiritual facet of human experience. Other important orientations developed in the last three decades include [[Feminist therapy]], [[Brief therapy]], [[Somatic Psychology]], [[Expressive therapy]], applied [[Positive psychology]] and the [[Human Givens]] approach which is building on the best of what has gone before.<ref>Corp, N., Tsaroucha, A., &  Kingston, P.  (2009). Human Givens Therapy: The Evidence Base. ''Mental Health Review Journal, 13'',4. pp. 44–52.</ref>  A survey of over 2,500 United States therapists in 2006 revealed the most utilized models of therapy and the ten most influential therapists of the previous quarter-century.<ref>The Top 10: The Most Influential Therapists of the Past Quarter-Century. ''Psychotherapy Networker.'' March/April, 2007.</ref>

==General concerns==

==General concerns==

Psychotherapy can be seen as an interpersonal invitation offered by (often trained and regulated) psychotherapists to aid clients in reaching their full potential or to cope better with problems of life. Psychotherapists usually receive remuneration in some form in return for their time and skills. This is one way in which the [[List of basic relationship topics|relationship]] can be distinguished from an [[altruism|altruistic]] offer of assistance.

Psychotherapy can be seen as an interpersonal invitation offered by (often trained and regulated) psychotherapists to aid clients in reaching their full potential or to cope better with problems of life. Psychotherapists usually receive remuneration in some form in return for their time and skills. This is one way in which the relationship can be distinguished from an altruistic offer of assistance.

Psychotherapists and counselors often require to create a therapeutic environment referred to as the [[Frame (therapy)|frame]], which is characterized by a free yet secure climate that enables the client to open up. The degree to which client feels related to the therapist may well depend on the methods and approaches used by the therapist or counselor.

Psychotherapists and counselors often require to create a therapeutic environment referred to as the frame, which is characterized by a free yet secure climate that enables the client to open up. The degree to which client feels related to the therapist may well depend on the methods and approaches used by the therapist or counselor.

Psychotherapy often includes techniques to increase awareness and the capacity for self observation, change behavior and cognition, and develop insight and empathy.  A desired result enable other choices of thought, feeling or action; to increase the sense of well-being and to better manage subjective discomfort or distress. Perception of reality is hopefully improved. Grieving might be enhanced producing less long term depression.  Psychotherapy can improve medication response where such medication is also needed. Psychotherapy can be provided on a one-to-one basis, in group therapy, conjointly with couples and with entire families. It can occur face to face (individual), over the telephone, or, much less commonly, the [[Online psychotherapy|Internet]]. Its time frame may be a matter of weeks or many years. Therapy may address specific forms of diagnosable [[mental illness]], or everyday problems in managing or maintaining [[interpersonal relationships]] or meeting personal goals. Treatment in families with children can favorably influence a childs development, lasting for life and into future generations. Better parenting may be an indirect result of therapy or purposefully learned as parenting techniques. Divorces can be prevented, or made far less traumatic.  Treatment of everyday problems is more often referred to as '''counseling''' (a distinction originally adopted by [[Carl Rogers]]) but the term is sometimes used interchangeably with "psychotherapy".  Therapeutic skills can be used in mental health consultation to business and public agencies to improve efficiency and assist with coworkers or clients.

Psychotherapy often includes techniques to increase awareness and the capacity for self observation, change behavior and cognition, and develop insight and empathy.  A desired result enable other choices of thought, feeling or action; to increase the sense of well-being and to better manage subjective discomfort or distress. Perception of reality is hopefully improved. Grieving might be enhanced producing less long term depression.  Psychotherapy can improve medication response where such medication is also needed. Psychotherapy can be provided on a one-to-one basis, in group therapy, conjointly with couples and with entire families. It can occur face to face (individual), over the telephone, or, much less commonly, the Internet. Its time frame may be a matter of weeks or many years. Therapy may address specific forms of diagnosable [[mental illness]], or everyday problems in managing or maintaining [[interpersonal relationships]] or meeting personal goals. Treatment in families with children can favorably influence a childs development, lasting for life and into future generations. Better parenting may be an indirect result of therapy or purposefully learned as parenting techniques. Divorces can be prevented, or made far less traumatic.  Treatment of everyday problems is more often referred to as '''counseling''' (a distinction originally adopted by [[Carl Rogers]]) but the term is sometimes used interchangeably with "psychotherapy".  Therapeutic skills can be used in mental health consultation to business and public agencies to improve efficiency and assist with coworkers or clients.

Psychotherapists use a range of techniques to [[Power (sociology)|influence]] or [[Persuasion|persuade]] the client to adapt or change in the direction the client has chosen. These can be based on clear thinking about their options; experiential relationship building; dialogue, communication and adoption of behavior change strategies. Each is designed to improve the [[mental health]] of a client or patient, or to improve group relationships (as in a family). Most forms of psychotherapy use only spoken conversation, though some also use other forms of communication such as the written word, artwork, drama, narrative story, or therapeutic touch. Psychotherapy occurs within a structured encounter between a trained therapist and client(s). Because sensitive topics are often discussed during psychotherapy, therapists are expected, and usually legally bound, to respect [[client confidentiality|client or patient confidentiality]].

Psychotherapists use a range of techniques to influence or persuade the client to adapt or change in the direction the client has chosen. These can be based on clear thinking about their options; experiential relationship building; dialogue, communication and adoption of behavior change strategies. Each is designed to improve the [[mental health]] of a client or patient, or to improve group relationships (as in a family). Most forms of psychotherapy use only spoken conversation, though some also use other forms of communication such as the written word, artwork, drama, narrative story, or therapeutic touch. Psychotherapy occurs within a structured encounter between a trained therapist and client(s). Because sensitive topics are often discussed during psychotherapy, therapists are expected, and usually legally bound, to respect [[client confidentiality|client or patient confidentiality]].