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

Medicare also paid for home visits to assess people, and for nail care and psychotherapy. — Ken Alltucker, USA Today, 2 July 2026

This might then also encompass the use of AI as an adjunct or tool that is used alongside psychotherapy. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026

But Saxbe stresses a lot of men could use psychotherapy or support groups that bring dads together, as well as more time bonding with loved ones in general. — Keith Wagstaff, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2026

The mental health service, started in 1981, offers support groups, psychotherapy and counseling in the area. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for psychotherapy

• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hydrotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• sclerotherapy
• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy
• radiotherapy

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