Person Centred Therapy
It’s not like in the movies, so what is Person Centred Therapy (PCT) I hear you ask? What does it mean? Where does it come from? How does it work?
PCT is the counselling theory developed in the 1940’s by American Psychologist Carl Rogers, and forms part of the Humanistic family of therapy. In it’s simplest form PCT means you’re your own expert, and given the right conditions and environment you can reach your true potential.
PCT is a non-directive therapy where you will be encouraged to bring your own issues to session, which will be led by you. I will only go where I’m invited. Imagine inviting me into you home, and offering to show me around. I will only go into the rooms that you want me to, and we will leave when you are ready to close that door.
PCT is based on a relationship of equality. You are a client, not my patient. As such it’s a common for new clients to think that I will “fix” them. Firstly that implies that you are “broken”, as a PCT therapist I do not believe this to be true. When working with your issues I will help you explore them. Together we’ll look at your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, behaviour and worldviews. Enabling you to gain more self-belief, independence and become more self-aware.
PCT is completely non-judgemental. Meaning you can bring whatever you want to session, helping to build a completely trustworthy relationship. I’ll help you realise what support, skills and resources you have at your disposal to help you work through your challenges and issues. As you explore you’ll develop a stronger sense of self, more confidence and soon see that your feelings are valid. There are always options in life, sometimes it can take someone who really understands to help you read your internal compass.
I cannot do the work for you, but what I will do is provide:
unconditional positive regard (UPR) – accepting and valuing you
congruence - honesty and transparency in how I experience you and your world
empathic understanding – seeing your viewpoint “as if” I were you
No one knows exactly what it’s like to be you and I trust you to uncover your autonomy and natural abilities to cope with past, present and future problems.
