psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē 

: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or of related bodily ills by psychological means

psychotherapist

ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pist 

noun

Examples of psychotherapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Preference for in-person psychotherapy versus digital psychotherapy options for depression: survey of adults in the U.S The American Journal of Psychotherapy. —Katie Liu, Discover Magazine, 5 Feb. 2025

Summary Natural treatments can be a helpful addition to a depression treatment plan, which often includes psychotherapy and antidepressant medications. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 4 Feb. 2025

Medications For people with mild to moderate postpartum depression, starting treatment with psychotherapy alone may be an option. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 30 Nov. 2024

Traditional psychotherapy doesn’t come cheap: Sessions with licensed professionals typically cost between $100 and $250 per 45-minute appointment, sometimes more depending on the provider’s credentials. —Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 11 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē 

: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or of related bodily illnesses by psychological means

Medical Definition

psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē 

plural psychotherapies

1

: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or maladjustment by psychological means especially involving verbal communication (as in psychoanalysis, nondirective psychotherapy, reeducation, or hypnosis)

2

: any alteration in an individual's interpersonal environment, relationships, or life situation brought about especially by a qualified therapist and intended to have the effect of alleviating symptoms of mental or emotional disturbance