Client Centered/ Person Centered Therapy
Client-centered therapy, also known as person-centered or Rogerian therapy, is a non-directive and humanistic type of therapy created by Carl Rogers in the 1940s and 1950’s.
Rogers believed that people are the experts on their own lives. In this approach, clients are equal partners in the therapy process. The therapist is non-directive and does not pass judgments on your feelings or offer suggestions and solutions. Rogers believed that people have a self-actualizing tendency and want to be the best version of themselves. Clients can fulfill that potential by relying on their own strength and change. This technique is called non-directive therapy. Rogers believed the therapeutic relationship could lead to lasting changes. Rogers eventually realized that therapists guide clients in subtle ways and clients are usually looking for guidance or direction from the therapist.
Therapists who utilize this approach strive to create conditions for change. This involves creating an environment that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and empathetic. 3 techniques are used to achieve this: 1) Genuineness and congruence 2) Unconditional positive regard 3) Empathetic understanding
Genuineness and congruence mean the therapist always acts in accordance with their thoughts and feelings. This means they are genuinely and authentically themselves. This involves self-awareness and a realistic understanding of how thoughts and feelings interact with each other. Utilizing these aspects helps clients feel safe in the therapeutic relationship which help them to feel more comfortable.
Unconditional positive regard means accepting clients for who they are and displaying care and support no matter what you are facing. This means expressing positive feelings or offering reassurance, or practicing active listening, eye contact, and positive body language to let you know they are engaged in session.
Empathetic understanding involves practicing empathy during sessions and acting as a mirror of your thoughts and feelings. They will attempt to understand you and be sensitive and aware to your point of view. The goal is to build rapport with the therapist and to feel understood. This would provide you an environment to express your point of view, thoughts, and feelings, which may offer you unique insights you did not have previously.