What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
psychotherapist
Example
I've been seeing a psychotherapist for my anxiety and it's been really helpful. [psychotherapist: noun]
Example
She specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is a type of psychotherapy. [psychotherapy: noun]
shrink
Example
I'm going to see my shrink later today to talk about my depression. [shrink: noun]
Example
He's been seeing a shrink for a few months now and he says it's been helpful. [shrink: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Psychotherapist is the more common and accepted term in professional and academic settings, while shrink is more commonly used in informal conversations or popular culture.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between psychotherapist and shrink?
Psychotherapist is a formal and respectful term used in professional and academic settings, while shrink is a more informal and sometimes derogatory term used in casual conversation.
