Therapeutic refers to efforts to enhance one’s mental health and wellness. In psychology, therapeutic approaches alleviate psychological distress and help individuals function at a higher level and attain personal objectives. For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches individuals to modify and reframe detrimental patterns of thinking, while mindfulness therapy helps focus on awareness and acceptance of one’s current environment.
The term therapeutic can also refer to activities, such as journaling, creating art, and being with others, that informally promote healing even in the absence of therapy. The flexibility and adaptability of therapeutic approaches stem from the combination of individual tailoring and the use of evidence-based methods. Even in informal settings, as in the case of everyday activities, therapeutic methods encourage positive mental health, balance within the individual, and a higher quality of life.