Is a counselor a therapist?

Question

Accepted Answer

Sort of. A therapist can provide counseling, but counseling is much more short-term and focused than therapy. The terms therapist and counselor are used interchangeably, but there are some key differences.

Counselors can provide therapeutic services, but counseling is typically more specialized and for short-term needs, such as for grief or for resolving a relationship conflict. On the other hand, mental health therapy is generally more open-ended and long-term, focusing on the individual and their growth and healing as a person. 

When a therapist helps someone with a very specific mental health problem, and they work toward a solution, then a therapist is acting as a counselor. 

If you feel like you have a very specific problem to solve, then a counselor might be best for you. If you feel like you want to learn more about yourself or see a pattern to your behavior or emotions, then you might want to choose a therapist.