article = {PDR-2020-1-101} title = {Psychotherapy Defined and Described: A Primer for Novice Clinical Interviewers} journal = {Psychological Disorders and Research} year = {2020} issn = {2674-2470} doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.31487/j.PDR.2020.01.01} url = {https://www.sciencerepository.org/psychotherapy-defined-and-described_PDR-2020-1-101 author = {Travis J. Pashak,} keywords = {psychotherapy, active listening, scanning-and-focusing, curiosity, advice} abstract ={This brief article consists of an attempt to broadly and inclusively define psychotherapy, as well as to provide a description of several basic skillsets for entry-level clinical interviewers, psychotherapists, counselors, and social workers. The paper overviews four crucial points about therapy, namely that interviewers should engage in active listening, scanning-and-focusing, open-minded curiosity, and the avoidance of advice-giving. The paper concludes with a concise summary and encouragement for budding therapists.}