Mental health treatment is typically referred to as counseling, while other services that aid in healing are considered part of therapy. This distinction stems from the fact that therapy is commonly associated with the treatment and resolution of a disorder. According to Daniel Wysocki, Ed.S., a counselor based in Jonesboro, AR, mental health professionals are just one of the many practitioners who can aid in enhancing an individual’s overall well-being. In some cases, a comprehensive treatment team may include an educational therapist, speech therapist, mental health therapist, and physical therapist to address the diverse needs of a child with multiple complex disorders. Each team member contributes an important role in the overall treatment process, and when their goals align, positive outcomes are often achieved.
Even among mental health professionals there is confusion between a licensed counselor, social worker, or psychologist. Each of these could fall under the category of “therapist”. The category of therapist will also include speech therapy, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, and even more! But providing professional assistance and guidance in resolving personal, social, or psychological problems and difficulties falls under counseling.
Each provider’s education and licensed care determine the difference between them. While a physical therapist may incorporate stress management techniques, their focus remains on their area of expertise. Similarly, a mental health therapist may provide muscle relaxation exercises, but their focus lies in promoting healing through understanding movement dysfunction. However, there is overlap between disciplines, and those with physical pain may be referred to counseling to learn new ways to manage stress. Therapy encompasses any service that helps individuals feel better, including self-care practices like visiting a salon or getting a massage. Therefore, mental health counseling should not be viewed as any different from other self-therapies, and it can be included as part of our self-care routine. The use of medication can also be described as pharmacotherapy.
