Patient vs. client: Which term should therapy providers use?

What’s the difference between a patient and a client?

The American Psychological Association (APA) defines the patient-client issue as “the dilemma of how to identify the recipient of psychological services or intervention.”

In a dictionary entry on the topic, the APA explains that psychiatrists and clinical psychologists usually refer to the medical model of their practice, calling people they work with “patients.” Counseling psychologists, social workers, and counselors sometimes avoid the word “patient,” instead referring to the people they work with as “clients.”

What does the word “client” represent?

Per the dictionary definition, the word “client” represents a person using or benefitting from professional services, which implies a collaborative relationship between two individuals. “Client” may be seen as more informal, potentially signifying the overall approach of the therapist.

In this context, the client seeks out a trusted professional — the therapist — to help improve their overall well-being through therapeutic services. The client may also play a more active role in decision making and treatment in this framework.

What does the word “patient” represent?

Per the dictionary definition, the word “patient” represents someone receiving medical services, which implies the therapy work is a form of healthcare. “Patient” may be seen as more formal, potentially signifying the overall approach of the therapist.

In this context, the patient seeks out a medical expert to diagnose and treat a mental health condition. The provider, viewed as the expert, may play the primary role in decision making and treatment.

Does it matter which term therapy providers use?

There’s no right or wrong way to describe the people you work with in therapy, but it’s a good idea to spend some time reflecting on which one suits your practice, approach, and identity as a therapist the best.

If you’ve spent several years earning a degree and therefore view yourself as a medical expert — or you work in a medical setting, like a hospital or outpatient facility — you may prefer saying “patients.”

But if you view yourself as a partner of those you work with, or you use modalities focused on collaboration, then you may prefer not to say “patient.”

Further, the way you describe the individuals you work with can shed light on your approach as a therapy provider, and how you see your role in the therapeutic relationship.

“I use the term ‘clients,’ because I view therapy as a shared effort and feel a less formal approach supports the type of therapeutic relationship I want to build,” says Grace Dowd, an Austin-based clinical social worker and owner of Grace Therapy & Wellness.

Keeping in mind consistency with the language you use — in conversation or in your professional biography or website — can help build trust with those you serve. Whether you use the term “client” or “patient,” a strong, confidential therapeutic relationship is key to positive outcomes.

Running a practice