What is a therapy chair called?

“Therapy chair” means different things to different people. In psychotherapy, it usually points to the empty chair technique. In shops and online, it might mean a massage chair, a lift chair or simply the seating in a therapist’s office. This guide explains each meaning briefly and neutrally.

The empty chair technique

When people ask what a therapy chair is called, they are often thinking of the empty chair technique. It is an exercise associated with Gestalt therapy, an approach to psychotherapy that focuses on present experience and awareness.

In the exercise, a person sits facing an empty chair and imagines someone sitting in it. That might be a person they have a difficult relationship with, someone they have lost, or even a part of themselves. They then speak to the chair, saying what they think and feel. Sometimes they switch seats and answer from the other side.

A trained therapist guides the exercise, suggesting what to explore and helping the person make sense of what comes up. The chair itself is ordinary; what matters is the structure and support around it.

Related techniques sometimes use two chairs, with a person moving between them to voice different sides of an inner conflict. You may see this called the two-chair technique.

The therapist’s couch

Another image many people have of therapy is the couch. Lying on a couch or chaise is traditionally associated with psychoanalysis and with Sigmund Freud, who had patients recline while he sat out of view.

Today, many therapists simply use comfortable chairs or a sofa, arranged so that client and therapist can talk face to face. Some therapy now happens by video call, with no special furniture at all. Office seating is usually chosen to feel calm, comfortable and welcoming rather than for any clinical reason.

Massage chairs

In everyday shopping, “therapy chair” often refers to a massage chair: a powered recliner with rollers, airbags, vibration and sometimes heat. Some retailers market them using words like “therapy” or “therapeutic.”

Massage chairs are designed for relaxation and comfort. They are not medical devices and should not be thought of as treatment for any condition. Follow the chair’s manual, and check your chair’s manual for recommended session length; many chairs have an automatic timer. Ask your doctor before using one if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery, have a history of blood clots, have osteoporosis, use a pacemaker, have an injury or have any other health condition.

Our massage chairs hub explains the main types, and our guide to when you should not use a massage chair covers common cautions.

Lift chairs and other seating

People also use “therapy chair” for other kinds of seating:

• Lift chairs are powered recliners that tilt forward to help a person stand up or sit down. They are often chosen by people who find getting in and out of a chair difficult.
• Recliners with power adjustment or heat are sometimes marketed with wellness language.
• Specialist seating used in clinics, salons or treatment rooms may also be called a therapy or treatment chair.

If you are choosing a chair for mobility or a medical need, ask your doctor, physiotherapist or occupational therapist what would suit you, rather than relying on product labels.

Getting support

If you are interested in the empty chair technique or any form of talk therapy, the best step is to speak with a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist, counselor or clinical social worker. They can explain their approach and decide with you whether a particular exercise is a good fit.

For questions about massage chairs and wellbeing, our article on whether sitting in a massage chair is good for you takes a cautious look at the topic.