therapist

noun

ther·​a·​pist ˈther-ə-pist 

1

: an individual specializing in the therapeutic medical treatment of impairment, injury, disease, or disorder

especially : a health care professional trained in methods of treatment and rehabilitation other than the use of drugs or surgery

These simple range-of-motion exercises are often prescribed by physical, occupational, or hand therapists for people with hand OA [=osteoarthritis].

—Food & Fitness Advisor

To help the baby interact with his family, a speech therapist taught everyone—including Justin's twin brother, Jeffery—hand signals and games.

—Michele Blecher

2

: a practitioner of psychotherapy : a psychotherapist

Again, it is important for the therapist to recognize that regression is normative due to the extreme stress of separation and divorce.

—Nathan W. Turner

Examples of therapist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Paracelsus Recovery, a residential clinic in Zurich that provides a private chef, a driver and a live-in therapist, charges about £100,000—roughly $131,000—a week. — Molly A. Wallace, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026

Professional psychologists have cautioned the public against using unlicensed AI chatbots as therapists. — Andrew R. Chow, Time, 22 Oct. 2026

In addition to surgeons and nurses, our team includes swallowing therapists, a physical therapist, a dental care team and a dietitian to help address issues with swallowing, nutrition, dental health, physical function and mood. — Marci Lee Nilsen, The Conversation, 22 Oct. 2026

There are saunas, hot tubs, steam rooms, and—most importantly—expert trainers and therapists who guide all guests through a journey of deep relaxation and rejuvenation. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing therapist

• behavioral therapist
• massage therapist
• physical therapist

Rhymes for therapist

• physiotherapist
• psychotherapist

Kids Definition

therapist

noun

ther·​a·​pist ˈther-ə-pəst 

: a person who specializes in therapy

especially : a person trained in methods of treatment other than the use of drugs or surgery

a speech therapist

Medical Definition

therapist

noun

ther·​a·​pist ˈther-ə-pəst 

: a person specializing in therapy

especially : one trained in methods of treatment and rehabilitation other than the use of drugs or surgery