The definition of psychology, according to Google, is the scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a given context. But therapy is defined as treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.
As you can tell, they aren’t the same thing. There’s a clear difference between the two that not everyone knows.
People tend to confuse psychology with therapy because the term “psychology” is normally used during therapy, which tends to make people think that they’re the same. Another common reason for confusion is that therapy involves a lot of talking about feelings and behaviors that people tend to tie to the scientific reasoning behind psychology. However, the two occupations are different even though they fall under the same field of study.
“Psychology is a broad scientific field that studies how people think, feel, and behave, using research and theory to understand the human mind and behavior. It includes many areas such as brain function, development, personality, and mental health, and not all psychologists provide direct treatment,” SBHS Student Assistance Counselor Mrs. Maura Nixon explains. “Therapy, on the other hand, is a practical process focused on helping individuals manage or overcome emotional, behavioral, or mental health difficulties by applying psychological knowledge through structured conversations and techniques to support change and well-being.”
As Mrs. Nixon explains, therapy applies psychology through treatment. By using psychological knowledge, they encourage clients to discuss their feelings and support their mental health. Alternatively, psychology is the science that studies how people behave, like within a therapy session.
Psychology teacher, Ms. Cristina Janis, explains that because there are a lot of overlapping terms in both areas of study, confusion is bound to occur. “I think there can be confusion. Many people may assume that all therapists are also psychologists, but that’s not always the case. I think it’s important for students to know that there are options if they’re interested in that field” she said.
This is an important misunderstanding to acknowledge because for anyone interested in the field, there are options. Not all therapists are psychologists, and not all psychologists are therapists. However, many therapists major in psychology to gain knowledge about human behavior and develop a deeper understanding of why their clients feel the way they do.
Not only in terms of interest but understanding the distinction between the two is important when seeking professional help, in order to align it with one’s specific needs.
