Theories of Counseling - Person-Centered Therapy

[@heather7927]

I really like the theory of person centered approach. I can appreciate how the foundation of facilitating a positive change and growth in someone starts in building a supportive and enriching counselor-client relationship. In my opinion, the nondirective approach is useful in that the client is in control and makes the decisions. To me, this is helpful for a client especially one who feels powerless or victimized to gain self worth and esteem.

[@kyarapanula1002]

Coming out of the dredges of Psychoanalytic therapist traits (removed, blank slate, etc), Rogers' theory of full, nonjudgmental involvement was a nod in the direction of allowances: the therapist was allowed to feel human nature just as their client does. As Barbara noted, the theory by itself does not stand the test of time, though its inclusion into other theories, both developed and developing, is more important than ever. The biggest note I've taken in reading about Person Centered Theory lay in actually reading one of Rogers' texts for Tools--to hear his own words is encouraging and reminiscent of a kind grandfather gently guiding us back to the unconditional life. Studying his work in the Scharf text, however, has proved much more drab....seemingly inappropriate for both modern lifestyles and insurance claims alike.

[@ashleymegahan5966]

I really like person-centered theory and believe that all clients can benefit from the approach and techniques in this therapy. I agree with the non-directiveness of the counselor in this therapy. I believe that clients who set their own goals will have a greater involvement and commitment towards achieving their goals.

[@Princess_Ngokz]

wow, this video really helped me a lot with my preparation for test. the text book was really frustrating me and I understand much better by watching this video than reading a text book. thanx a lot

[@volveracasa26]

Dr. Grande, this is such a great help for my studies! After I read the litterature I watch one of your videos and it gives me a much deeper understanding og the subject. Thank you so much for this🙏🏻☺️

[@khandygurl01]

This was really good! Thank you! I’ve been in the field for 5 years now & need these refreshers & this is so clearly stated!

[@janicedixon2051]

This video was very insightful! I gained a better understanding for self-actualization and why some people never achieve it. In my opinion, no one can ever reach the optimal level of human functioning because a child is likely to experience some type of incongruity whether it be at home or at school.

[@spacestalker]

Currently studying a Diploma of Counseling so this is all new to me. I find this approach interesting and could see how it could work but I think it would be hard on the Counselor to control their non-directive stance. Being a new student my opinion is probably irrelevant but I can't see this approach working well for most people. That's mainly due to the fact that you go to counseling under the guise that the counselor is going to direct you and help you and set goals for you. This approach relies entirely on the client themselves to recognise the incongruency, be congruent and self actualise without any direction. Of all the approaches I think this is my least favorite. Maybe? Or maybe because there are no real 1.2.3. etc guidelines to follow. As a beginner it is a bit daunting. I think it would take many many years and clients to master (like any approach I guess), but I think the hardest part would be to be non directive. Awesome video though. Really glad I watched it. In theory it sounds like a simple approach yet I think what is required from the counselor is vastly underestimated by the casual observer of this approach. Apologies for the long comment......its an issue I'm working on! haha. You better pray I don't get your voicemail....could waffle on for hours!

[@JudiChristopher]

Very compelling comment, with many merits.

[@brittbell15]

I really like person-centered therapy, overall. I think that the concepts behind this type of therapy are great. This type of therapy wants to support the client fully and allow them to self-actualize. This type of therapy also wants the client to realize their capability in achieving self-directed growth. I will definitely incorporate aspects of this technique during sessions.

[@tommyX.808]

Great presentation! - I highly appreciate the whole series "Theories of Counseling" 💚💙🧡💜

[@anahgalloway2740]

I like a lot of the aspects of Person-centered Therapy. I appreciate that the theory of personality works towards positive growth, "optimal level of functioning", and self actualization. I think this fits nicely into the wellness model of treatment that we learned about in Ethics. I also liked the idea of congruence and the relationship between a client's idea of self and experiences. I encounter individuals with low self esteem frequently who engage in unhealthy behaviors in an attempt to seek approval from others. From this perspective, the incongruence from experiences of conditional worth could explain why these individuals act out in the ways they do.

[@priscillaj3072]

The goal of person-centered therapy is for the client to become fully functioning and congruent, in other words, self-actualized. For this to occur, the client must fulfill their need for positive regard from others and also have positive regard for themselves as well. However, this can become threatened when the client experiences conditional worth from others and accept the views and beliefs of other, while disregarding their own, in efforts to win the positive regard of others. This can result in the client experiencing incongruence and can produce anxiety and as well as other negative feelings and experiences.

[@GigiCat6]

This is a great presentation. It is informative, well paced, understandable language, and applicable examples. Thank you!

[@DrGrande]

You’re welcome!

[@Virtuewz]

Thank you Dr. Todd Grande. We are learning to apply the therapeutic modalities in our Therapeutic communications class for nursing, and you articulate yourself well. Thank you again.

[@kikixiong6156]

I believe that Person-centered therapy is useful and presents the most humanistic aspect of counseling. However, personally, I think solely Person-centered therapy is not enough for significant therapeutic change, especially under the pressure of the tendency of brief therapy. I think it works best integrated with other therapies and approaches.

[@bigglesworth06]

kiki Xiong Agreed

[@bigglesworth06]

I think it shows a confidence in the client, but it fails to unearth the culprit of the initial or underlying issues.

[@bonniewisnewski475]

Dr. Grande, you are a wonderful teacher, thanks so much for this video, you make everything so clear!

[@lauraleslie4240]

Person-Centered Therapy's focus on the person and the therapeutic relationship is the foundation in which to build upon, but I can see how this can be a limiting theory and may not work well alone. It seems this theory is best to use as a basis in which to expand with a client, but it is key to establish unconditional positive regard and a non-judgmental approach. These two components alone can prove to be most useful in establishing a healthy therapeutic alliance.

[@1WillowMoon]

i love this theory, it truly is about the client. i am currently on level 3 of counselling and choosing this model. i actually LIKE how there are no questions and advice giving. I feel this can only be good for the client because it is down to the client to heal themselves or to find their own problems inside, with this therapy it is more than possible. Who are we to go into the heart of someone else, only THEY can find what is truly within. We are there to guide them to this and nothing more. Thus, they find their own answers and healing. good video, thankyou for sharing. :)

[@tracey6999]

Great Job with explaining Rogers theory, but the tone almost put me to sleep a couple of times, overall simply explained and clear!

[@JudiChristopher]

Tone? Like Monotone?

[@andreanichols7950]

I thought this was a comprehensive overview of person centered therapy. These are supplemental to the reading and really help solidify the information. I guess because this is the the theory being taught to me I have a bias towards it and the its effectiveness but overall I fell it is useful.

[@tyonnabrooks748]

This therapy is great for helping clients develop their own understanding of their problems without anyone (counselor) getting in their way of making decisions for themselves. It is also great for counselor should be aware of themselves and others, as well as being spontaneous and empathetic because then their demeanor and responses will be more believable. This will allow for the client to open up more and feel comfortable with sharing more information, and allowing the counselor to gain more insight to the problem, which then helps the counselor develop appropriate responses and ways to interact with the client.

[@angiegrimes7265]

One of the ways that a counselor shows unconditional positive regard is by taking a nonjudgmental stance. It made sense to me not to judge a client negatively but I had not considered that judging a client positively could also be disruptive. Making any kind of judgment places conditions of worthiness on the client which will effect the therapeutic relationship. I can see that at least initially in this relationship, I will need to suspend any judgment.

[@alexandrajones3178]

+Angie Grimes This is a good point Angie. I had not considered how judging a positive thing would be directive. I think it would be extremely difficult to be completely neutral and not respond to positive behaviors. This is the complete opposite of behavior, which I am most familiar with, so I think I would have a lot of difficulty doing this.

[@SimmaSinger]

Late to the party here but this is a very, very good summary and extremely useful.

[@charmainequarles5863]

After hearing Dr. Grande speak about the many people who discounted Rogers's theory regarding non-directive therapy being beneficial to a client last class , I felt kind of defensive. Partially because we read so much about Rogers in our Tools 1 class. I like this theory and the type of therapy and think that it is key in building the therapeutic alliance. Many people don't want to be told what to do or even have someone suggest what they could or should so. Most people just want someone to listen and show them genuine positive regard. For those that want that, this is definitely the type of therapy for them.

[@JudiChristopher]

Okay, with that being said... You say, "There are people who do not want to be told what to do, or even someone to suggest what they could or should not do..." (MY question is then) Why are they even seeking help in the first place??? That would be a good question. BUTTTTT you have brought up a good counter balance, with the notion that they just want someone to listen and give positive feed back... (Is that like blowing smoke up someone's ear?) If thats the case, they can call a really good friend that will tell them anything they want to hear. I agree with you on many levels, that sometimes a person just needs a leading ear. But that would do the person an injustice if they were going to a Doctor, and the Doctor gave them a placebo (sugar pills). What is scarier is that, sometimes the placebo really does work. (Thank God for that, or the good Doctor, that knew the person didn't need unnecessary drugs, to "Help" this person, a placebo is needed. ... Once I had seen a severe car wreck in front of me, I was the fist on scene. The man thought he was going to die. (that wasn't too far from the truth). I told him he was going to alright, and the wreck wasn't that bad (he had flipped his car 8 times... it was really bad). I calmed him down until the ambulance arrived. He had been bleeding so bad, that I knew I had to calm him down, so his heartbeat would slow down. When he SAW the pictures of how bad the wreck really was... he called me to ask why I lied. I smiled and explained it to him. He agreed if he had known how bad it really was, he probably would have died on the spot, just because he BELIEVED he was going to die. The mind is VERY Powerful, and what we say to our subconscious is very important. Thank you so much for your input. YOU have helped me a lot... I'll try not to put everyone in the same box.

[@anwvererere]

lovely video summarising everything. thanks

[@nicolegill3485]

Thank you for your videos, they really helped me with my studying !!! So clear !

[@rbells5173]

I agree that with the fact that Person-centered therapy would not be effective with clients that need guidance or direction. I could certainly see how the client would be frustrated with the therapist for not directing them or offering some advice. They may feel as if they are stuck and are relying on the therapist to guide them.

[@angelinastanton7996]

It was interesting to see how person-centered therapy is similar to existential therapy in emphasizing a need for the client to posess freedom and responsibility, search for meaning, and have the capacity for self-awareness. Person-centered therapy is also similar to existential therapy because it does not have many traditional techniques. For example, this approach is more about the creation of a therapeutic environment in order for the client to improve. I generally like person-centered therapy. However, I think it would be too difficult for a counselor to be non-directive at all times. It is also difficult for me to picture the counselor giving an opinion of the client without expressing any judgement. For example, I can’t imagine a counselor to always be truly sincere in giving an honest and positive opinion of the client.

[@spacestalker]

I'm very new in this area as I previously come from a technical background. But I found this approach to be so left field compared to previous approaches I've learned about. I agree.....it would be hard for the counselor to maintain a non-directive approach...I'd imagine it being quite frustrating {without actually ever having counseled anyone before). At what point do you, say, refer someone to a different approach when multiple sessions haven't resulted in client self-actualisation? Like I said I'm only beginning but how do you not guide a client towards something that is clearly beneficial or ask questions that could guide the client. This approach would be tough on the counselor to maintain a non directive approach like you said. But then I guess you explain the approach at the beginning or the client is aware of the approach prior to seeing the counselor so they know what they are signing up for?

[@calboy2]

Thank you dr grande

[@joe1579]

I like person centered Therapy a lot, & that it's none directive. Though, I agree with your criticism that clients might eventually seek help elsewhere, if the counselor remains too non-directive throughout the entire relationship... I would find it very difficult not to give the client some kind of direction, ask a question, or challenge a client, if I believed it might be useful considering the situation.

[@jazzmynmolson307]

I agree with you Joe. I see this can be useful but maybe require a lot of trust that the client will be able to make the change without direction. How would that challenge those with some defiance? The skills are very important and it shows how essential the therapeutic alliance is with success.

[@melissahansbury6522]

I like person-centered therapy because it is all about the client. The counselor simply needs to form a therapeutic relationship with the client. What I find to be difficult about this theory is that the counselor needs to be non-directive at all times. I think I would struggle with being completely non-directive. I also find it hard to not be able to ask any questions at all or give interpretations. In my mind, these things are necessary in order to gather information as well as make progress with clients. I believe that my counseling style is not suited for person-centered therapy although I could see myself using bits and pieces from this theory.

[@nakeshatucker6844]

+Melissa Hansbury I absolutely agree that the counselor needs to form a therapeutic relationship with the client. This initial step in definitely necessary for client growth.

[@brittbell15]

+Melissa Hansbury I agree, I really like aspects of this style as well but I do not think I would able to stay non-directive the entire session and feel as though I was entirely beneficial to my client. But then again, sometimes all a client may need is a good listening ear. It all depends on the individual.

[@corinne7324]

This is the one theory that I am most familiar with. Carl Rogers emphasizes the importance of the client-counselor relationship. In order to help the client change their must be an alliance developed first with trust. I feel as though this therapy is not enough for me as far as just reflecting the clients feelings. I like therapies that have more techniques.

[@angelinastanton7996]

I like how this form of therapy can be easily integrated with other therapies and other techniques. I think it is helpful for a counselor to start out using person-centered therapy before expanding their skills to try out other techniques and approaches.

[@katybethhern6167]

I completely with agree with this theory's demand for a complete therapeutic alliance. However, I'm not sure I understand the techniques. I think they contradict each other. For example, one technique is active listening (paraphrasing, reflecting, and summarization), but this theory does not support using interpretation. Correct me if I'm wrong, isn't the previously stated techniques all forms of interpretation? Also, I'm not sure how much progress this type of therapy would provide, without being able to ask questions, which could allow the client to more effectively reflect on their issue.

[@tommyfisher-klein8768]

Although I appreciate and like Person-Centered Therapy I do have a hard time grasping the idea and fact that the counselor is supposed to be non-directive throughout the entire counseling process. I understand that it is possible to be be semi-directive through asking open ended questions and asking a client to repeat or rephrase a statement they just made however wouldn't that interjection be seen as directing the conversation?

[@JudiChristopher]

This is exactly what Professional Life Coach does... and I don't think I"m too keen on that approach. IF I came to a professional Doctor, like Dr. Grande and he asked open ended questions... I would not think I was getting my money's worth. I would want his guidance, because he is the "Doctor". A Specialist in his field.

[@MyDonh]

As much as i respect and admire Carl Rogers, I am a bit confused about certain aspects of this theory. I wonder how effective a counselor could be with the concept of non - directiveness which discourages asking questions, giving advice, no interpretations or setting of goals. It almost seems as if the client comes in completely unaware or even open to the therapeutic experience. And after the counselor goes to great length to establish empathy and congruence through being authentic, it appears that he abandons the client to work out their major issues on their own as Dr. Grande stated. I am not sure how practical that is. Anyone care to discuss?

[@angiegrimes7265]

+don wilson I agree with your confusion. What Carl Rogers seems to be suggesting is pure listening. While most of us would benefit from someone really listening to us, eventually the we will probably like/need some directions. This direction could be facilitated from the very things that are discouraged such as asking questions, help setting goals and maybe even giving advice. PCT is probably not enough to help most people in the long term.

[@Unteroffizier]

I think it will be okay to ask questions to clarify your own understanding of the situation the client is in, not asking question on qnything out of such conditions or for personal gain. If a mental patient is clearly showing signs of suicide tendency, it will be good for you to lead and advice or escalate the case to professionals who can handle suicidal tendencies. In the case of a patient facing financial difficulties, its not wrong to suggest to him / her to apply for assistances, but the ultimate decisin is still up to the client.

[@muhsinjega41]

What does nondirectiveness mean?

[@JudiChristopher]

I wondered the same thing too... I looked up the word 'nondirectiveness' and there wasn't any description. I don't think it is a real word.

[@alexandrajones3178]

I like the importance of counselor client relationship, which I think is vital for success with a client. I don't agree with it being completely non-directive. I think that if I were a client I would feel really frustrated if a counselor only used reflecting of feelings with me. To me, it seems a little inauthentic and unnatural to have a conversation without any questions being asked. It seems very one sided.

[@corinne7324]

Alexandra, I too admire the importance of the counselor-client relationship. It is the foundation for the therapy session. Once the foundation is set then the counselor can help the client better understand their frustrations and feelings better.

[@ralucaneagu2245]

That's the main problem with discussing a theory of counseling from the outside. I am currently learning this type of counseling and the idea that you're not allowed to ask questions it's a misunderstanding or a myth. You can ask questions but only referring to the client's content in therapy, not coming from your own interest in putting him a diagnose or label him. It's egalitarian and the main thing every client is learning during the process is responsibility for his own life and decisions, having the context of somebody genuinely caring for him and trusting his own ability to change and grow. I'm not giving him directions because I trust in his ability to be responsible and follow a positive track.

[@barbarahoffman2324]

This is not one of my favorite therapies. I prefer a more directive approach that offers clear direction and practical solutions. This therapy seems to me to be incredibly long and drawn out, not particularly effective, and past its prime. While Roger's idea of the therapeutic alliance, being non judgmental, and authenticity are mainstays in the helping field, that is where the usefulness of this therapy ends for me.

[@kyarapanula1002]

+Barbara Hoffman Agreed! Those keywords are definitely at the forefront of the microskills hierarchy, but I, too, appreciate a more directive approach....I can definitely appreciate how utilizing aspects of PCT can keep us mindful in our daily practice, regardless of which technique we gravitate toward.

[@priscillaj3072]

+Barbara Hoffman +Kyara Panula I agree with both of you ladies. Building a strong therapeutic alliance, being nonjudgmental, and authentic are aspects of this therapy, however I too like a more directive therapy approach. As a counselor, I think I would feel like I wasn't really helping my client if I couldn't ask questions to help them explore more or help them set goals.

[@anahgalloway2740]

+Barbara Hoffman You all bring up a good point about the actual effectiveness of such a non-directive approach. While I like the foundation of a person-centered perspective, I also prefer to be more directive in practice!

[@katybethhern6167]

+Barbara Hoffman I agree with you 100%. While, the importance of the therapeutic alliance is a great part of this theory, there is nothing more I see of use from the theory. Thus, I feel it's obvious to start with a strong therapeutic alliance in therapy, but if that's all that is utilized then how is any progress made? I guess it all depends on the client's personality, needs, and concern.