What exactly is 'therapy speak'?

Therapy speak refers to the use of clinical psychological terms and concepts, such as 'gaslighting,' 'trauma-informed,' or 'holding space,' in casual conversation, often popularized through social media and online content.

What are the potential benefits of using therapy speak?

It can help destigmatize mental health discussions, provide a common vocabulary for emotional experiences, encourage self-awareness, and promote empathy in communication by giving names to complex feelings and dynamics.

What are the common criticisms or downsides of therapy speak?

Critics argue it can oversimplify complex psychological issues, lead to misdiagnosis or misuse of terms, pathologize normal human experiences, and sometimes hinder genuine communication by relying on labels instead of deeper understanding.

Where did 'therapy speak' become so prevalent?

Its widespread adoption is largely attributed to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where mental health influencers, content creators, and personal anecdotes share psychological concepts, making them accessible to a broad audience.

How can one use mental health language responsibly?

Using it responsibly means understanding the true, clinical meaning of terms, avoiding self-diagnosis, focusing on genuine communication rather than just labeling, and recognizing the distinct role of professional therapy for complex issues.