But who is a psychotherapist?

Psychotherapy is treatment using psychological methods that involves regular sessions with a psychotherapist, a profession whose title is regulated. Specialists in supportive or structured psychotherapy, recognized by the ARS, include psychiatrists, medical doctors, psychologists, and psychoanalysts (under certain conditions). Non-psychotherapists, whether health professionals or not, who are trained practitioners in methods of expression, meditation, hypnosis, relaxation, and artistic mediation, can play a complementary and useful role in care teams, while respecting a psychotherapeutic framework. Psychopractitioner or psychopractician is a common but unregulated denomination. Professionals who use this term have generally undergone thorough training in methods of helping others through a trusted private institute or a reliable federation. However, some patients whose suffering has made them vulnerable report approaches that have led them to an impasse, with no chance of serious psychotherapeutic care. The authors reiterate factual points in order to better inform people suffering from psychological distress, as well as the professionals who treat them. The abuse of patient trust and practices linked to religious sects are the two main risks discussed in this article.