Words / B2

THER-uh-pist/ˈθerəpɪst/

A therapist treats a condition through therapy: a speech therapist; a physical therapist (US; UK often physiotherapist); a psychotherapist. Doctor is a wider medical title; counsellor overlaps with talking therapy. Do not call a friend a therapist. NHS waiting lists for therapists are a news staple.

Meaning

A person whose job is to treat a physical or mental condition through therapy.

Examples

• “The waiting list to see a therapist grew after the pandemic.”
• “A speech therapist visited the school, which is the paediatric sense.”

Good to know

a speech / occupational / psycho- therapist. UK physio ≈ US physical therapist. Related: counsellor. Not an unqualified friend. NHS waiting lists.

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