The Difference Between Counselling & Psychotherapy?

What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy

“Counselling and psychotherapy are umbrella terms that cover a range of talking therapies. They are delivered by trained practitioners who work with people over a short or long term to help them bring about effective change or enhance their wellbeing.” - BACP, 2010

The phrases "counselling" and "psychotherapy" are sometimes used interchangeably. Some practitioners could opt to refer to themselves using both titles. There are some minor distinctions between them despite how similar they are (both methods aim to relieve psychological symptoms and allow people to live more meaningful lives).

The term "counselling" is typically used to describe a shorter psychotherapeutic approach that focuses primarily on behavioural patterns and often addresses a specific symptom or problematic situation.

'Psychotherapy' is often a longer-term process that concentrates more on understanding the root causes of emotional issues. Instead than concentrating on specific issues, it focuses on the client's mental patterns and modes of being.