Starting therapy can feel like learning a new language. You may hear your therapist use words like “intake,” “progress notes,” or “processing,” and you may feel unsure of what those terms mean. While it’s completely normal to ask your therapist for clarification, it can also help to have some familiarity with these terms ahead of time. Becoming familiar with common therapy terms can make the process feel less intimidating, and it can help you feel more confident in your mental health journey.

When you step into a therapy setting, some of these words take on specific meanings. The more you know, the easier it is to feel prepared as you move through therapy sessions. In this blog, we will explore a list of common therapy terminology and how they relate to your experience in therapy.

Therapy terms related to getting started

Beginning therapy often involves structured steps that help to set the foundation for your work together. These early sessions are typically about gathering information and building trust. Understanding the terms you may hear during this stage can help you feel more at ease as you get started.

  • Intake: The intake session is often the very first encounter with your therapist as you begin therapy. It’s a chance for your therapist to get to know you, ask questions about your history, and understand what brought you into therapy.
  • Diagnosis: In some cases, a therapist or other licensed mental health professional may reference a diagnosis. This means identifying patterns of thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that fit the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is important to note that not everyone who benefits from therapy receives a diagnosis, and a diagnosis is only one part of a person’s therapy experience.
  • Referral: Sometimes, a therapist may refer you to another mental health professional. This can happen if they believe you’d benefit from a specialist’s expertise or additional support beyond the scope of their practice.

Therapy terms related to the therapy process

Once the therapy process is underway, you and your therapist will start shaping the direction of your sessions. This may involve creating goals, developing coping strategies, and finding ways to make sense of your experiences. Knowing these terms can help you feel more connected and collaborative in the process.

  • Treatment plan: A treatment plan is like a roadmap for therapy. You and your therapist may outline goals, strategies, and focus areas. Treatment plans are flexible and may evolve over time as your needs and progress shift.
  • Goals for therapy: Setting goals gives therapy direction and helps to track your progress. Goals can range from improving communication skills, learning how to cope with strong emotions, or exploring personal values.
  • Values: In therapy, “values” may refer to the principles or qualities that matter most to you. They can help guide decision-making and shape how you want to live your life.
  • Boundaries: Boundaries are limits that protect your well-being in relationships with others and yourself. In therapy, you may explore how to set and maintain boundaries.
  • Self-care: While often used in everyday language, in therapy, self-care refers to engaging in practices that support your mental, emotional, and physical health.

Therapy terms related to emotions and thoughts

Therapy sessions may invite you to pay closer attention to your inner world including your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Sometimes the language used to describe these experiences can feel unfamiliar. Learning these terms can help you better recognize and talk about what you’re feeling, both in and outside of sessions.

  • Feelings vs emotions: These words are closely related, but they are not identical. Emotions are the body’s response (like fear, joy, or sadness), while feelings are the way you interpret and experience those emotions.
  • Cognitive dissonance: Cognitive dissonance happens when your thoughts, beliefs, or behaviors are conflicting. For example, you may value honesty but tell a lie, leading to discomfort. Therapy can help you explore these thoughts.
  • Projection: Projection is when someone attributes their own feelings or thoughts to another person. For example, if you’re feeling angry but accuse someone else of being upset with you, that may be projection.
  • Processing: Your therapist may encourage processing of emotions. This means allowing yourself to experience and understand your feelings in a safe, supportive way.

Therapy terms related to documentation and closure

Behind the scenes, therapists use tools and terminology to organize and track the work being done in sessions. They also use specific language to describe the natural end of therapy, whether it’s planned or comes sooner than expected. Understanding these terms can help you feel more informed.

  • Progress notes: Therapists keep notes after each session. These progress notes ensure continuity of care by providing a record of your progress and therapeutic modalities used.
  • Psychological testing: Testing may be used to better understand specific areas like your learning style, memory, personality, or other mental health concerns. Testing is often conducted by trained professionals and can help support a diagnosis to guide treatment.
  • Termination: Termination refers to the conclusion of therapy. The end of therapy doesn’t mean something went wrong; it can be a natural part of the process when you’ve met your goals.

Why knowing common therapy terms matters

Understanding these common therapy terms can help you feel more confident and prepared as you start therapy. Instead of feeling like you’re in unfamiliar territory, you’ll know what to expect and how to communicate with your therapist about your needs.

Learning therapy terminology can also help to bridge the gap between you and your therapist. When you understand the words they use, you may find it easier to follow along, ask questions, and take an active role in your therapy experience.

Takeaway

Therapy is a deeply personal experience, and no two journeys will look the same. Having a clear understanding of common therapy terms, though, can give you the tools to feel more empowered in sessions. These words and phrases are meant to create understanding and clarity as you work toward your personal growth.

If you’re feeling uncertain about a term your therapist uses, know that it’s always okay to ask for clarification. Therapy often works best when it’s collaborative.

If you’re curious about beginning therapy, exploring your local options is a supportive first step. You can learn more about what to expect in therapy or connect with a licensed mental health professional who feels like a good fit for your needs at findmytherapist.com.