psychotherapy
Meaning
The treatment of mental illness by talking to a therapist and discussing your problems rather than by using drugs.
A particular type or school of this treatment.
Structure
Usage
She decided to undergo psychotherapy to address her anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a widely practiced form of psychotherapy.
The clinic integrates medication with psychotherapy for a holistic approach.
Etymology
The word 'psychotherapy' is a modern scientific compound, assembled in the 19th century from two ancient Greek roots to describe a new medical concept. The first element, 'psycho-', originates from psychē, which in ancient Greek encompassed the concepts of breath, life, soul, and ultimately the mind. The second element, '-therapy', derives from therapeia, meaning healing, attendance, or medical treatment. When combined, the term literally translates to "healing of the mind" or "treatment of the soul," directly and logically reflecting its modern application as the treatment of psychological disorders through psychological, rather than purely physical, means.
Analysis
- psycho: From Greek psychē (soul, mind, spirit). Functions as a combining form denoting a relationship to the mind or mental processes. - therapy: From Greek therapeia (healing, curing, service done to the sick). Functions as the head noun indicating a course of treatment.