How Does Counselling Differ from Psychotherapy?

When looking for mental health support, many people come across the terms counselling and psychotherapy. While they are closely related and often overlap, there are some important differences. Understanding these can help you decide which type of therapy may be right for you.

At OLIP Therapy in Fareham, we offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including counselling and hypnotherapy, to support clients across Hampshire. Below, we’ll explain the key differences between counselling and psychotherapy, their benefits, and how to choose the best approach for your needs.

What Is Counselling?

Counselling is generally a short- to medium-term form of therapy that focuses on specific issues or challenges you may be facing. It provides a safe, supportive environment to talk through your concerns with a trained professional.

Key features of counselling:

• Usually focused on current issues such as stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship problems

• Tends to be goal-orientated with practical strategies

• Typically involves weekly sessions over a set period of time

• Aimed at helping clients cope with challenges, improve wellbeing, and build resilience

What Is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a longer-term, more in-depth process that explores the underlying causes of emotional difficulties. While counselling often focuses on the “here and now,” psychotherapy may look at patterns formed in the past and how they continue to affect present behaviour.

Key features of psychotherapy:

• Explores deeper, long-standing issues such as trauma, personality difficulties, or complex mental health concerns

• May focus on both past experiences and present challenges

• Often takes place over months or even years

• Aimed at creating lasting change in how clients think, feel, and relate to others

How Counselling and Psychotherapy Overlap

Although they have differences, counselling and psychotherapy often share common ground:

• Both provide a confidential, non-judgemental space

• Both aim to improve mental health and emotional wellbeing

• Both involve talking therapies with a trained professional

• Many counsellors also incorporate psychotherapeutic techniques depending on a client’s needs

Which Approach Is Right for You?

Counselling may be right for you if you want to:

• Address specific problems like work stress, anxiety, or relationship issues

• Learn practical coping strategies to improve daily life

• Work on short-term goals with a clear focus

Psychotherapy may be right for you if you want to:

• Explore deeper emotional issues or past trauma

• Understand long-standing patterns of behaviour

• Engage in long-term personal growth and self-exploration

Counselling in Fareham and Hampshire

At OLIP Therapy in Fareham, our experienced therapists can help you decide which approach suits your needs. Whether you are seeking short-term counselling to address a specific issue or longer-term support for deeper concerns, we provide a safe and supportive environment to help you move forward.

We offer:

• Individual counselling

• Couples counselling

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)

• Hypnotherapy and EMDR (where appropriate)

• Hypno-CBT

• Hypno-EMDR

• Online sessions as well as face-to-face counselling in Fareham

Take the First Step Towards Support

Whether you choose counselling or psychotherapy, the most important step is reaching out for help. Both approaches can lead to greater understanding, improved wellbeing, and a stronger sense of resilience.

At OLIP Therapy in Fareham, we offer a consultation chat to explore your needs and recommend the best way forward.

👉 Book your consultation today and begin your journey towards a healthier mind.