[Various forms of dialogue. Not every dialogue is psychotherapy].

This paper outlines five different forms of dialogue, which are often confused: A conversation is a conventional and not formalized dialogue between two persons on equal terms, both talking and listening to each other. An interview is a formalized (perhaps schematic) exploration with the specific aim of assessing the interviewee. A counselling and/or a consultation does not interfere with the traditional doctor-patient relationship. Counselling can be an independent profession focusing on delimited problem areas. Psychotherapy is- or should be-qualified, specific and systematic, i.e. the application of a psychological theory with the specific aim of treating a psychological disorder/disease. The therapist is in a well-defined professional role. The dialogue is subject to the primary therapeutic goal. Psychoanalysis is research of the unconscious in particular, as well as a special kind of psychological treatment. The dialogue is specifically accommodated to the psychoanalytic process.