Problem:
Adlers' theory uses experiences to adjust future perspectives on interaction, and Rogers' theory provides empathetic support to increase the client's self-esteem (Raskin et al., 2019). No matter the person's impairments or limitations, a client-centered therapist trusts in the person's inner resources for growth and self-realization (Raskin et al., 2019). Client-centered therapists believe that each individual has a natural drive toward self-actualization (Raskin et al., 2019). The non-directive nature of client-centered therapy means that encouragement would contradict its principles (Raskin et al., 2019). Additionally, every individual has everything they need inside them to heal themselves. Since encouragement is directional it can disempower the clients to encourage themselves. It is the counsellor's role to listen and be empathic and understanding, allowing the client to express themselves freely, whether positive or negative, however they wish (Raskin et al., 2019). Counsellors acknowledge what has been shared but must provide direction. Reassurance and advice-giving may be interpreted as not having confidence in a client's approach (Raskin et al., 2019).
Watching the person-centered demonstration with Dr. Victoria Kress and Dr. Stewart-Spencer, I saw how the therapist was highly empathetic by emphasizing the client's emotions and trying to hear/understand the situation more instead of encouraging the client (MACP Skills Learning Lab, n.d.). Also, I noticed that this led to the client feeling more comfortable and explaining more about how they felt. In the demonstration with Dr.Victoria Kress, once the session ended, the client mentioned that she appreciated the listening, which also made me think that the clients appreciate the empathy and understanding from the therapist.
In client-centered therapy, the focus is mainly on the client. Do you think therapists must also have more control over the session?
MACP Skills Learning Lab. (n.d.). MODULE 7 Person-Centered Demonstration with Dr. Stewart-Spencer; [Video]. Yorkville University
MACP Skills Learning Lab. (n.d.). MODULE 7 Person-Centered Demonstration with Dr. Victoria Kress; [Video]. Yorkville University.
Raskin, N. J., Rogers, C. R., & Witty, M. C. (2019). Client-centered therapy. In D. Wedding & R. J. Corsini (Eds.), Current psychotherapies (11th ed.) pp. 101-156. Boston, MA: Cengage.