What is person-centred counselling?

Person-centred counselling, as devised by psychologist Carl Rogers in the 1950s, is based on the assumption that clients should have an accepting, non-judgmental relationship with the counsellor, allowing the client to freely express emotions and feelings. This type of counselling is for those who want to address specific psychological habits or patterns of thinking. The client is perceived by the counsellor as being the best authority of their own experience and therefore capable of achieving their own potential for growth and problem resolution. Person-centred counselling is based on the belief that a client will benefit the most from exploring their subjective experience, rather than underlying issues and/or motives.

The person-centred counsellor provides favourable conditions to allow the emergence of such potential through empathy, thus enabling the client to come to terms with negative feelings, and develop inner resources with the power and freedom to bring about change.

Who benefits from person-centred counselling?

Person-centred counselling appeals to many people as it is client-led, giving the client control over what is discussed in the therapy session. Many people are understandably attracted to the empathetic and non-judgemental nature of person-centred counselling. Person-centred therapy can be very effective in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and personal disorders.