Terms used by mental health professionals can be confusing. Searching for definitions online can be misleading. For these reasons, we are beginning a two-part blog on current therapy terms commonly used by family counseling services and what they mean.
Understanding Therapy Terms
Therapists use many terms in their jobs. Some relate to diagnosis and others are treatment related. Here are some definitions of the more common terms frequently used.
- Burnout – Helpguide.org defines burnout as a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Some causes include your job, parenting, overbooking, or anything else in your life that is overwhelming.
- Codependency – This term is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a psychological condition or a relationship in which a person manifesting low self-esteem and a strong desire for approval has an unhealthy attachment to another often controlling or manipulative person.” Basically this is when an individual caters to the needs and wants of another to gain their approval or because they feel trapped.
- Gaslighting – According to a report by NBC News, this term refers to “a specific type of manipulation where the manipulator is trying to get someone else (or a group of people) to question their own reality, memory or perceptions.”
- Self-care – Doing activities to maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul. This includes things like eating healthy, exercise, understanding healthy coping skills, meditating, therapy and setting boundaries.
Contact Garrett Counseling for Your Family Counseling Services
If you still have questions about therapy terms, their meanings, now or during a session, ask. If you’re unsure whether therapy might be benefit you, contact Garrett Counseling today. We offer in-person appointments at our Boaz, Huntsville, or Jacksonville center for counseling. If you prefer the comfort of your home, we also offer real-time virtual appointments as well. Call us at (256) 239-5662 today at or click here to submit your questions or request an appointment online. Stay tuned for part two!