Counselling and therapy are often used interchangeably, but they differ in focus, duration, and approach. Both are forms of talk-based mental health support delivered by trained professionals, aiming to improve emotional well-being, yet they serve distinct purposes.

Counselling is typically short-term and goal-oriented, addressing specific life challenges or immediate concerns. It helps individuals cope with situational issues like relationship conflicts, grief, stress, career transitions, or decision-making. Counsellors use practical techniques such as cognitive-behavioral strategies or solution-focused methods to build coping skills and resolve problems quickly. Sessions are structured, collaborative, and present-focused, often lasting 6–12 weeks. For example, someone dealing with a recent breakup might see a counsellor to process emotions and develop communication tools.

Therapy (or psychotherapy) is generally longer-term and deeper, exploring underlying patterns, traumas, or mental health conditions. It delves into past experiences, unconscious thoughts, and root causes of issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or personality disorders. Therapists employ varied modalities, including psychodynamic (examining childhood influences), humanistic (fostering self-actualization), or integrative approaches. Therapy can span months or years, promoting profound personal growth and behavioral change. A person with chronic low self-esteem rooted in childhood might engage in therapy to reframe core beliefs.

Key overlaps include confidentiality, empathy, and evidence-based practices. However, qualifications vary: counsellors often hold master's degrees in counselling psychology with focus on practical interventions; therapists (e.g., clinical psychologists or psychotherapists) may have doctoral training and treat complex diagnoses.

In practice, the line blurs many professionals offer both. Choose based on needs: counselling for targeted support, therapy for in-depth healing. Always verify credentials (e.g., via licensing bodies like the APA or BACP) and seek referrals from GPs or helplines like Samaritans.