Difference Between a Counselor and Therapist

Therapist

The terms counselor and therapist are often used interchangeably in America. Indeed, if someone says one of them and means the other, you’ll most likely understand to what he or she is referring. However, there are a few differences between them, as considered by various different health sources, and knowing the differences can be helpful if you’re looking into the professions of counseling or therapy for any reason.

1. Possible topics

The name of counselor suggests someone who gives advice, which is certainly what a counselor does. However, a therapist gives advice based on emotional or psychological matters, usually in a “proper” setting given to this duty. A counselor, on the other hand, can be anyone who gives advice on any subject. For instance, a lawyer can be considered a counselor if he or she offers legal advice, or an accountant can be given the name of counselor if he or she gives suggestions on how best to treat one’s money. A therapist, however, deals with matters of the mind and body (such as in the case of a physical therapist) and looks to advise on how to improve one’s life through one’s own actions and state of mind.

2. Time frame

Some people claim that seeing a therapist implies a more long term process whereas a counselor offers advice only a single time or a limited number of times. This goes along with the idea that a therapist works to change a more long term aspect of one’s life, or a way of thinking, where a counselor gives advice on handling a single event or moment. A counselor may only focus on the events or aspects relating to the issue you’ve come to discuss, while a therapist may look at many different portions of one’s life in order to get a wider, more in depth view of the client.

3. Title

In some states, the term “counseling” is legally protected so that anyone using that term must be registered and have a degree. It is possible, then, that people who offer services under this title have proper degrees, while people using other titles may not have a degree or a certificate. Look up the regulations in your state to see what sort of titles are protected and require a degree in order to be sure you’re getting the best quality care by a licensed professional.