Speaking of Psychology
The rise of ‘therapy speak,’ with Taisha Caldwell-Harvey, PhD, and Erin Parks, PhD
Mar 26, 2025
Dr. Taisha Caldwell-Harvey, founder of The Black Girl Doctor, and Dr. Erin Parks, co-founder of Equip, dive into the intriguing phenomenon of 'therapy speak.' They discuss how terms like ‘narcissist’ and ‘gaslighting’ have infiltrated everyday conversations. The duo highlights the importance of using psychological terms responsibly, cautioning against trivializing serious conditions. They also explore how this language can both inform and hinder personal growth, emphasizing the need for clear communication in mental health discussions.
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of 'therapy speak' reflects increased societal awareness of mental health, allowing better articulation of personal experiences and struggles.
- Misusing therapeutic terminology can lead to misunderstandings and oversimplification of complex emotions, often harming relationships rather than healing them.
Deep dives
The Rise of Therapy Speak
The increasing popularity of therapeutic terminology, often referred to as 'therapy speak', reflects a growing societal awareness of mental health issues. Terms like gaslighting, narcissism, and boundaries have transitioned from clinical settings into everyday conversations, enabling individuals to articulate their experiences more effectively. The rapid dissemination of these terms can largely be attributed to social media, where concepts can gain traction in a matter of hours rather than years. However, while the rise of therapy speak may promote openness about mental health, it also necessitates caution regarding the correctness and appropriateness of these terms in various contexts.
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