Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'therapy' is expressed through several terms that distinguish between medical treatment, psychological counseling, and physical rehabilitation. The most common and general term is 治療 (chiryō), which covers medical therapy. For psychological therapy, 心理療法 (shinri ryōhō) or the loanword セラピー (serapī) are used. Physical and occupational therapy are referred to as 理学療法 (rigaku ryōhō) and 作業療法 (sagyō ryōhō), respectively. The choice depends on the specific type of therapy and context.
therapy (medical)
To refer to therapy as a medical treatment for illness or injury, including drug therapy, radiation therapy, etc.
The most general term for medical treatment or therapy. It can be used for a wide range of treatments, from medication to surgery to physical therapy, but it is primarily associated with medical interventions.
He is receiving therapy for cancer.
Often used in compound words to specify a type of therapy (e.g., 化学療法 'chemotherapy'). It can also stand alone but is less common than 治療 for general medical therapy.
To refer to therapy focused on mental health, such as psychotherapy or counseling.
To refer to therapy aimed at restoring physical function or daily living skills.
To refer to non-mainstream therapies such as aromatherapy, music therapy, etc.
The loanword セラピー is widely used for alternative therapies, often combined with another word (e.g., アロマセラピー 'aromatherapy').
治療 (chiryō) is the standard medical term for therapy or treatment, often used in clinical settings. セラピー (serapī) is a loanword that feels softer and is commonly used for psychological or alternative therapies. Using セラピー for serious medical treatment may sound inappropriate.
cancer therapy
A new therapy method has been developed.
この療法は効果的だ。
This therapy is effective.
The formal term for psychotherapy. It is used in clinical and academic contexts.
She is undergoing psychotherapy.
A loanword from English, commonly used for various types of therapy, especially psychological or alternative therapies. It has a softer, more approachable nuance than 心理療法.
I go to therapy to relieve stress.
Refers specifically to counseling, which is a form of therapy. It is often used in the context of mental health support, career counseling, etc.
You can receive counseling at school.
Physical therapy, focusing on restoring movement and function through exercise, massage, etc.
After the injury, I received physical therapy.
Occupational therapy, helping people perform daily activities through therapeutic tasks.
Occupational therapists help with training for daily life.
Short for リハビリテーション (rehabilitation). Commonly used in casual conversation to refer to physical therapy or rehab.
I'm working hard at rehab every day.
You can relax with aromatherapy.
Used in compound terms like 音楽療法 (music therapy) or 森林療法 (forest therapy).
Music therapy is said to be effective for dementia.
relaxation therapy
While セラピー is versatile, it is not used for physical therapy or standard medical treatments. For physical therapy, use 理学療法 or リハビリ. For medical therapy, use 治療.
She needs physical therapy after the accident.