mental health support

What Is Psychotherapy vs Therapy

Is Psychotherapy the Same as Therapy? Here’s What You Should Know

When people mention "therapy," it’s usually in the context of mental health. But have you ever wondered, what is psychotherapy vs therapy? Are they truly the same? The answer is: not quite. While the two terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversations, they carry different meanings when you dig into the details. Therapy is a broad term that includes a variety of treatments, both mental and physical, while psychotherapy is a specialized form of therapy focused specifically on emotional and psychological healing.

What Is Psychotherapy vs Therapy

Whether you're considering reaching out for support or just curious about the terms, this guide will clarify the key differences, benefits, and when you might need each one. And if you’re looking for expert help, Wellman Psychology offers professional Psychotherapy Lincoln Park services tailored to your needs.

If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained, now might be the time to talk to someone. Wellman Psychology provides compassionate, evidence-based support to help you overcome life’s challenges. Our licensed psychotherapists are trained to guide you through mental health struggles like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Whether you're seeking short-term strategies or deep personal healing, we’re here to support your journey. Contact Wellman Psychology today and take your first step toward better mental health.

What Is Therapy?

Therapy is an umbrella term used to describe treatment methods aimed at improving an individual’s well-being. It doesn't apply only to mental health—therapy can include everything from physical therapy for a sports injury to massage therapy for stress relief. In this context, though, we’re mainly talking about psychological or emotional support.

Mental health therapy generally involves meeting with a trained professional to discuss problems, set goals, and work through difficult emotions or behaviors. Depending on the type, therapy may be short-term and solution-focused, or more open-ended and supportive. Life transitions, grief, relationship issues, and work stress are just some of the common reasons people seek therapy.

Some key points about general therapy:

  • It can address physical or emotional issues.



  • It may include supportive conversations, lifestyle adjustments, or skill-building.



  • It’s often used to manage short-term problems or specific stressors.



  • Therapists may not always dive deeply into past traumas or long-standing mental health diagnoses.



In short, therapy helps people feel better and function more effectively, even if it doesn't always involve intense psychological analysis.

What Is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a specific type of therapy that zeroes in on the mental and emotional aspects of a person’s life. Sometimes referred to as "talk therapy," it involves structured sessions with a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychotherapist, counselor, or clinical social worker. The goal is to help clients understand their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions and make meaningful changes.

Unlike general therapy, psychotherapy often explores deeper issues, including trauma, unresolved childhood experiences, personality patterns, and unconscious beliefs. It’s evidence-based, meaning it's backed by scientific research and proven techniques.

Psychotherapy is ideal for:

  • People with diagnosed mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, PTSD).

  • Those experiencing persistent emotional difficulties.

  • Individuals seeking deeper insight into themselves.

  • Anyone wanting to break negative cycles or behavioral patterns.

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach—your psychotherapist will choose or combine techniques based on your personal goals and history.

Therapy vs. Psychotherapy

So, what are the main differences between the two? Here’s a breakdown:

Category

Therapy

Psychotherapy

Scope

Broad (physical or mental)

Specific to mental and emotional health

Focus

Surface-level or situational issues

Deep psychological patterns and trauma

Provider

Various licensed professionals

Trained mental health professionals

Duration

Often short-term

Can be short-term or long-term

Approach

Supportive, practical

Structured, evidence-based techniques

Examples

Life coaching, stress counseling

CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy

To sum it up: all psychotherapy is therapy, but not all therapy is psychotherapy. If you're just trying to navigate a tough time, therapy might be sufficient. If you're dealing with deeper or more complex psychological challenges, psychotherapy is likely the better option.

Types of Psychotherapy

There are many different styles of psychotherapy, each with its own approach and benefits. Here are some of the most widely used:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that influence behavior. It’s practical, structured, and often short-term—great for treating anxiety, depression, phobias, and more.

2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT helps individuals manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal skills. It’s useful for mood disorders, self-harm, and trauma.

3. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT encourages clients to accept their emotions and commit to behavior changes that align with their values. It’s beneficial for people struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic pain.

4. Psychodynamic Therapy

This deep-dive therapy explores unconscious motivations, past relationships, and childhood experiences. It aims to uncover the root causes of emotional distress and develop lasting insight.

5. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

IPT focuses on improving communication and relationship patterns. It’s commonly used to treat depression and is effective in both short-term and long-term formats.

6. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is primarily used for trauma and PTSD. It combines guided eye movements with memory recall to reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories.

Each therapy method serves different needs, and your therapist may integrate several approaches depending on what works best for you.

Do I Need Therapy or Psychotherapy?

If you’re unsure which form of treatment to pursue, start by evaluating your needs and concerns:

  • Are you coping with a specific issue, like job stress or a breakup? Therapy can provide practical support and strategies.

  • Are you struggling with long-standing emotional pain, past trauma, or recurring mental health symptoms? Psychotherapy can help you explore those deeper issues and heal from them.

  • Do you want to better understand yourself and change long-term patterns in your life? Psychotherapy offers insight and tools for sustainable growth.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, it’s okay not to have all the answers right now. At Wellman Psychology, our trained Psychotherapy Lincoln Park professionals can help you determine the best path forward during an initial consultation. The important thing is that you're considering taking care of your mental health—and that’s a powerful first step.

What Does a Psychotherapist Do?

A psychotherapist plays a vital role in helping clients process and heal from mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges. Their job is not just to listen, but to assess, diagnose, and treat psychological conditions using proven techniques.

Here’s what you can expect from working with a psychotherapist:

  • Assessment: In the early sessions, they’ll evaluate your mental health history, current challenges, and goals.

  • Diagnosis: If needed, they may provide a formal diagnosis to guide treatment.

  • Treatment Planning: They’ll develop a personalized treatment approach using appropriate therapeutic techniques.

  • Sessions: Through weekly or bi-weekly meetings, you’ll explore thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.

  • Progress Tracking: They’ll monitor changes over time and adapt your plan as needed.

Psychotherapists are not only supportive but also strategic—they work to empower you with tools, insight, and coping strategies to improve your mental health long-term.

Final Thoughts

Therapy and psychotherapy are both valuable, depending on your situation. Therapy may offer the guidance and support you need for life’s immediate challenges. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, provides a deeper, more structured path toward long-term emotional healing and self-discovery.

If you're unsure where to start, don't worry—you don’t have to go it alone. Wellman Psychology is here to help you understand your needs and provide expert care tailored just for you. Whether you're dealing with stress, navigating trauma, or just looking for someone to talk to, our licensed Psychotherapy Lincoln Park professionals are ready to support your journey.

  • Take the first step toward feeling better.

  • Schedule your first session with Wellman Psychology today.

  • Explore your thoughts, learn new tools, and find relief.

  • You deserve support, and it’s okay to ask for it.

  • Reach out to Wellman Psychology — your mental health matters.

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What Is Act Therapy Used for?

When faced with overwhelming stress, emotional struggles, or life’s big decisions, you may start wondering, "What is ACT therapy used for?" Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, goes beyond many traditional therapeutic approaches by helping people embrace their emotions rather than resist them. ACT therapy combines elements of mindfulness with values-based action to promote psychological flexibility, resilience, and meaningful living. ACT can be applied to many areas of life, from dealing with mental health conditions to improving personal growth and performance. For Chicago residents, where urban living often comes with unique pressures, ACT therapy can be especially helpful in handling the challenges of city life. At Wellman Psychology, our ACT Therapy services are designed to help Chicagoans manage these pressures and find balance.

What Is Act Therapy Used for

Understanding the Basics of ACT Therapy

ACT is built on six core processes: acceptance, cognitive defusion, present-moment awareness, self-as-context, values, and committed action. These elements work together to help individuals engage with their thoughts and emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. The goal of ACT isn’t to “fix” or “cure” emotions but rather to cultivate acceptance, allowing people to live according to their values even when emotions are challenging.

In a bustling city like Chicago, where daily stressors might include high-pressure jobs, traffic jams, or maintaining relationships in a fast-paced environment, ACT provides powerful tools. Through ACT therapy, clients learn to identify personal values and take actions aligned with these values, regardless of difficult thoughts or feelings.

Unique Uses of ACT Therapy That Most Sources Don’t Mention

ACT therapy is commonly known for treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma, but it can be used in several other valuable ways that may surprise you. Here are some lesser-known applications that can benefit Chicagoans dealing with diverse challenges:

Career Burnout and Work-Life Balance

In urban settings like Chicago, career-driven lifestyles often lead to burnout. ACT therapy can support individuals in realigning their work with their values, helping them rekindle their passion for their careers or find a healthier work-life balance. A study found that employees who participated in ACT-based interventions reported a 30% reduction in burnout symptoms, underscoring its potential in high-stress job environments.

Chronic Pain and Health Conditions

ACT therapy has also proven beneficial for individuals managing chronic pain and health-related stress. In a city like Chicago, with its rich healthcare resources, more people are turning to ACT for chronic pain management. By encouraging acceptance of pain without allowing it to dominate their identity, ACT helps individuals focus on meaningful activities and values, ultimately improving their quality of life.

Enhancing Athletic and Artistic Performance

Many athletes, artists, and performers use ACT to manage performance anxiety and maintain focus. ACT’s strategies encourage them to observe self-doubt or fear without judgment, allowing them to pursue their passions with clarity. Chicago’s vibrant arts and sports communities can benefit from ACT’s emphasis on mental resilience, staying present, and optimizing performance under pressure.

How ACT Therapy Supports Relationships in Chicago

Maintaining healthy relationships is essential for well-being, yet urban pressures can strain even the strongest bonds. ACT’s focus on values and open communication can improve the quality of relationships. By teaching individuals to clarify and act in line with their personal values, ACT encourages honesty and compassion, which are key to strong relationships.

For Chicago couples dealing with urban stressors, ACT therapy can help clarify priorities within the relationship and reduce conflict by embracing each other’s unique experiences. Studies show that couples who engage in ACT-based interventions report an increase in relationship satisfaction by up to 40%, indicating how valuable this approach can be for navigating urban pressures together.

ACT’s Efficacy for Mental Health in Urban Settings

ACT therapy has shown significant efficacy across a range of mental health conditions. Here are some impactful statistics:

  • Anxiety: Studies indicate that ACT therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety by 44% within 8-12 sessions, making it a valuable option for those struggling with anxiety in Chicago’s fast-paced environment.

  • Depression: For people dealing with depression, ACT has been shown to improve symptoms by 39% within 12 weeks, emphasizing its benefits for individuals who may feel trapped by negative thoughts.

  • Stress Management: ACT’s emphasis on mindfulness has been linked to a 25% reduction in stress, which can be crucial for those navigating daily city stressors like traffic, high rent, or long working hours.

In a city with unique pressures and challenges, ACT’s effectiveness in helping individuals manage stress and mental health conditions can be transformative.

Are you curious about “Why Group Therapy Is Effective?” Visit our blog page today to learn more!

Wellman Psychology: Supporting Chicago Residents with ACT Therapy

At Wellman Psychology, we understand the diverse needs of Chicago residents and aim to provide ACT therapy tailored to this city’s unique demands. Our ACT Therapy Chicago services are designed to help individuals and couples improve resilience, handle stress, and build lives aligned with their values. By integrating ACT’s principles with our deep understanding of Chicago’s pace, we provide support that considers both the personal and urban challenges our clients face.

Our therapists are trained in ACT’s evidence-based techniques, and we offer a warm, supportive environment where clients can explore their values, embrace their experiences, and make lasting changes. From career-driven professionals to artists and couples, Wellman Psychology is here to help Chicago residents find their footing and thrive.

Conclusion

In the dynamic and often demanding city of Chicago, mental well-being is a vital part of living a fulfilling life. ACT therapy offers a flexible, meaningful approach that helps individuals navigate the highs and lows with greater resilience and acceptance. Unlike other therapies that focus on eliminating difficult emotions, ACT teaches us to live alongside them in a way that allows us to be true to our values and purpose.

At Wellman Psychology, we’re here to support Chicago residents who are ready to make that change. Whether you’re dealing with stress, burnout, relationship challenges, or performance anxiety, ACT therapy can provide you with the tools to embrace your experiences and lead a values-driven life. Reach out to Wellman Psychology today and take the first step toward mental clarity and personal growth. Our team is ready to help you discover the power of ACT therapy for a life of resilience and purpose.