Counselling vs Psychotherapy: What’s the difference?

December 12, 20231

In the world of mental health, the long list of terms to describe the psychological therapies available can be overwhelming. Counselling and therapy are forms of treatment that are often used interchangeably, and while they both contribute to the wellbeing of individuals, they are different and it is important to understand this when considering therapy. This blog will explore the differences between counselling and psychotherapy, and how to know which approach is best for you.

What is counselling? 

Counselling is a form of talking therapy, which involves an individual working with a professional counsellor to unpack specific concerns or life challenges. The primary aim of counselling is to help individuals address and cope with certain issues that are affecting their lives and has the goal of enhancing overall wellbeing. Such issues are varied and can include mood and worry problems, along with difficult interpersonal relationships

Counselling can often be short-term and goal-oriented, with sessions ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Counsellors provide a supportive and empathetic environment for individuals to feel seen and heard, which is essential for helping them process and navigate difficult emotions and situations. Counsellors are also often regulated through the BACP or NCS, two separate professional bodies.

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy can often involve a deeper dive into the psyche, exploring an individual’s emotions, thoughts and behaviours. It aims to uncover underlying issues, patterns, trauma, and unresolved problems often from the past that may be affecting your mental health. Psychotherapy considers the interconnectedness of a person’s life, from relationship dynamics and past experiences, to current circumstances. By uncovering the root causes of issues, it promotes long-term personal growth and awareness. 

Psychotherapy can similarly help to treat a range of problems, such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, abuse, self harm and more. This form of treatment tends to take place over a longer period of time, with sessions occurring regularly over a few months to a year or more if needed. Psychotherapists tend to be regulated through the UKCP, a further professional body.

What are some other forms of therapy?

CBT – Also known as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, CBT is a goal-oriented, structured, time-limited therapy that involves analysing specific thought and behaviour patterns contributing to emotional distress. The principle of CBT is what we think and how that affects the way we feel and behave. This form of treatment helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns, promoting healthier coping mechanisms. CBT is generally short to medium term, with a focus on practical strategies for immediate change, and often works more in the ‘here and now’ with presenting difficulties. It is well evidenced as effective in treating a wide range of presenting difficulties including depression and anxiety.

EMDR – EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and it is a type of therapy that helps with processing and overcoming trauma. It involves guided eye movements to facilitate the processing of the memories of trauma in a healing way. Although EMDR is often used for trauma-related conditions such as PTSD, it has also been adapted to treat many other mental health difficulties including OCD, phobias, health anxiety, and addictions. 

How we can help 

When it comes to finding the right treatment for you, it’s worth considering an number of factors including the nature and duration of your mental health issues, your needs or goals, whether therapy is for immediate solutions, long-term growth, coping mechanisms, or support with a specialised difficulty or mental health diagnosis. 

At North East Counselling, we offer a range of therapies including CBT and EMDR to support your wellbeing, and our qualified counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists in Durham can help guide you towards the suitable path of treatment. 

To get started, contact us today to set up an initial 60 minute assessment session, where we will work together to find the best way forward.