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

Klein and Sloat are now recuperating at home with assistance from aides and therapists. —Peter D'oench, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026

In Pepsi’s 2026 Super Bowl commercial, Taika Waititi makes an appearance as a therapist to none other than a polar bear. —Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 4 Feb. 2026

Aside from a major conflict, here are a few factors to consider, according to family therapists. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 4 Feb. 2026

In addition to Goldstein's dad, Paul's character was inspired by real-life famous celebrity therapist, Phil Stutz, whose clients include Jonah Hill, John Stamos and Lawrence's own wife (and actress on the show), Christa Miller. —Skyler Trepel, PEOPLE, 4 Feb. 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