Key Concepts of Person-Centered Theory

The person-centered approach seeks to aid the client in becoming self-aware and realizing his or her capacity for wisdom and self-understanding. In addition, the client will learn to alter their self-concept and self-defeating behaviors (Thorne, 2006.) Corey (2009) reports that person-centered therapy (PCT) assumes people are trustworthy, inherently able to understand themselves and figure out their own problems without help from a mental health professional. If given the proper guidance, individuals can initiate and maintain self-growth. Below are five client comments and five proposed therapist responses. Each therapist response will utilize at least one key concept and support the primary goals of person-centered therapy.

Client Comment # 1: " I just don't know what to do, and I am hoping you can tell me."

Therapist Response #1: "I don't have the power to tell you what to do. But I've been where you are and I know how frightening 'not knowing' can be."

This response utilizes the PCT concept of congruence. The therapist answers from a place of genuine concern or realness by defining the therapist role and clarifying that the client-therapist relationship is collaborative not authoritative. This comment supports the overall goal of PCT which is to aid the client in obtaining greater independence and integration (Corey, 2009).

Client Comment #2: "My mother thinks I am making the wrong decision, and that makes me livid. She is always trying to control me."

Therapist Response #2: " Your mother is entitled to her opinion. However, you are the one living your life."

This comment supports the PCT concept of human beings' innate ability to make good decisions. Williams (2010) asserts that effective PCT allows the client to free themselves from internal and external influences of others so that they may obtain optimal human functioning. The comment supports the primary goal of empowering the client to direct his or her own life.

Client Comment #3: "I am only here because my wife made me come, and I don't want to hear her nagging anymore. I think counseling is stupid and definitely won't help me in any way!"

Therapist Response #3: "I apologize if you feel pressure to attend these sessions. I certainly don't like to be cornered into doing things I don't want to do. I would like to ask that you continue coming to the sessions because I think they will benefit you and your wife. I will not force you to participate but you are more than welcome to when and if you feel comfortable to do so."

This comment utilizes the PCT concept of allowing the client to resolve his or her issues without a therapist's interpretation or direction. It supports the overall goal of rewarding and valuing