therapist

American  

[ther-uh-pist] / ˈθɛr ə pɪst /

noun

1. a person trained in the use of physical methods, as exercises, heat treatments, etc., in treating or rehabilitating the sick or wounded or helping patients overcome physical defects.

2. a person trained in the use of psychological methods for helping patients overcome psychological problems.

3. Also therapeutist a person, as a doctor, skilled in therapeutics.

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therapist British  

/ ˈθɛrəpɪst /

noun

1. a person skilled in a particular type of therapy

   a physical therapist

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Etymology

Origin of therapist

First recorded in 1885–90; therap(y) + -ist

Compare meaning

How does therapist compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• psychologist vs. therapist

Explanation

An expert at a specific kind of healing practice is called a therapist. A massage therapist is trained to soothe sore muscles, for example. The first thing many people think of when they see the word therapist is a psychotherapist, a mental health practitioner whose job is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. This kind of therapist might listen to a patient's thoughts, fears, problems, and dreams and offer helpful techniques or even medication. Other types of therapists include physical therapists and occupational therapists, both of whom help clients with mobility and quality of life issues presented by their physical disabilities or challenges.

Example Sentences

The rehab program was a “short stint,” but Nacua said he continues to meet with a team therapist and has adopted tools such as journaling.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

She and her husband, Justin, dropped their daughter off at her grandparents’ and rushed to Washington Regional Hospital in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where Waldorf worked as an acute care physical therapist.

From Salon • May 27, 2026

Proponents note that it requires a great deal of experience and specialized skills, often in managing the intense feelings it can stir, which can overwhelm a patient and the therapist alike.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

The millennial sex therapist eked out a narrow win in the Democratic primary election in March and will advance to a runoff with the second-place finisher, sheriff’s deputy Johnny Garcia, on Tuesday.

From Slate • May 22, 2026

I haven’t done so well with the physical therapist.

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen

Related Words

• adviser
• analyst
• clinician
• doctor
• physician
• psychiatrist
• psychoanalyst
• psychologist
• psychotherapist