psychotherapy

noun

psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē How to pronounce psychotherapy (audio)
: treatment of mental or emotional disorder or of related bodily ills by psychological means
psychotherapist noun

Examples of psychotherapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Researchers found antidepressant effects from psilocybin and supportive psychotherapy may last at least a year in some patients. Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 20 Apr. 2026 Prosecutors say that between 2019 and 2023, Hares and others submitted more than $7 million in fraudulent claims for psychotherapy services that were never provided. Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026 These include psychotherapy that is inspired by the Quran, the teachings of the prophet and spiritual practices such as self-reflection, prayer and mindfulness. Anisah Bagasra, The Conversation, 17 Apr. 2026 The Access Problem Traditional Practices Created Some of the largest New York providers of psychotherapy to people with special needs deliver services from within their own facilities. Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for psychotherapy

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of psychotherapy was circa 1890

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Cite this Entry

“Psychotherapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/psychotherapy. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

psychotherapy

noun
psy·​cho·​ther·​a·​py ˌsī-kō-ˈther-ə-pē How to pronounce psychotherapy (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce psychotherapy (audio)
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

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