Therapy? Or "Therapeutic"?
The difference between “therapeutic” and “therapy” is a hot topic in the fields of psychology and social work right now -- this two words are so similar, is there even a difference? YES, there is, so don't be fooled! “Therapeutic” refers to the activities that make a person feel good or relieve anxiety -- you probably engage in these kinds of therapeutic activities on a regular basis and don’t even realize it!
For example, taking a walk can be a stress reliever for many people. Perhaps the fresh air and different scenery give you a sense of relief. Utilizing art materials in a mindful way can also be therapeutic, but it is important to note that what happens in sessions at The Artful Life is more than just enjoying coloring or clay. Working with art on your own can be a profoundly reflective and relieving experience, however, therapeutic activities are NOT therapy!
In order to be considered “therapy,” a mental health professional needs to be present and working with you. Although the effects that going to therapy have on you might be therapeutic, it is the actual time spent with the mental health counselor that qualifies as therapy. "Therapy" itself can be defined as “the process of working with a licensed therapist to develop positive thinking and coping skills and treat mental health issues such as mental illness and trauma” (Rauch, 2016, para.1). There are many different types of therapy such as behavioral, group, and family therapy; and there are just as many reasons to seek it. The result of therapy is often learning therapeutic ways to handle the situations, behaviors, and symptoms with which you are concerned.
Have we confused you yet?? Check out some of the resources in our references section, or visit our website for more ways to explore! www.artfullifecenter.org
Written by Camryn Elliott, Artful Life Intern, Psychology, Summer 2019 Modified by Jen Spanedda, Artful Life Intake Coordinator
REFERENCES
Dancingers, M. (2019, February 17). Therapy vs. Therapeutic. Retrieved from https://ptbraintrust.blog/2014/10/06/therapy-vs-therapeutic/
Rauch, J. (2018, October 29). What Is Therapy? The Complete Definition of Psychotherapy. Retrieved from https://www.talkspace.com/blog/what-is-therapy-the-complete-definition-of-psychotherapy