Client-Centered Therapy

Theroy: Client-Centered Therapy

Theorist: Carl Rogers

Focus:  The focus of the client-centered therapy is that all humans possess a drive toward self-actualization, or a growth process that activates in the context of a genuine, caring, empathetic, nonjudgmental relationship. (Austad, 2009) The process of client self-discovery and actualization occurred in response to the therapist supplying a consistent empathic understanding of the client’s experience, based on the attitude of acceptance and respect. This self-discovery has proven to be especially beneficial to those in eating disorder treatment clinics, trauma recovery, treatment for alcoholism and cocaine rehab.

Strengths: The genuineness, unconditional positive regard, and empathic listening by the therapist, portrays an attitude of warmth, acceptance, caring, and respect that emanates from one person to another.

Weakness: It is important that the patient find the right fit in a therapist. They must feel comfortable enough to be able to open up fully and the therapist must be able to be genuine and empathetic.

Techniques Used: Therapeutic techniques include the therapeutic relationship itself, reflection, self-disclosure, and sharing experiences. The process of therapy brings the patient from a state of incongruence to congruence. Termination occurs when the patient decides he or she is ready, as only the client determines the outcome.

Personal example: I went through a post-partum depression after my second son was born. I went to a therapist that was very caring and understanding and could actually describe the way I was feeling better than I could myself. Knowing someone understood how I felt and what I was going through was a great deal of comfort for me.

References:

Austad, C. (2009). Counseling and Psychotherapy Today, New York: The McGraw-Hill

Companies, Inc.

Retrieved August 1, 2011 from  

http://www.casapalmera.com/articles/client-centered-therapy/