What is Person-Centred Therapy?

If you’ve ever felt sad, anxious, or just a bit lost, you might have thought about talking to someone who can help. Often the search for a counsellor can be overwhelming as there are so many options and unfamiliar terminology. So, I thought it could be helpful to explore some of the different approaches to counselling, starting with Person-Centred Therapy.

What is Person-Centred Therapy? At its heart, Person-Centred Therapy is all about you. It’s an approach that focuses on the person rather than the problem. It’s a way of talking and sharing your feelings that puts you in the driver’s seat. Imagine you’re on a journey, and you get to choose where to go. Your counsellor is like a friendly guide, helping you find your way, but you decide the route.

This type of therapy was developed in the 1950s by a man named Carl Rogers, he believed that every person has the ability to grow and change. He thought that people were more easily able to work through their problems when they felt understood and accepted, which means this type of counselling relies on a good relationship between counsellor and client.

Person-Centred Therapy is all about creating a safe and warm space where you can be yourself – you don’t have to hide your feelings or pretend to be someone you’re not. Here, it’s all about you! What’s more, unlike other approaches, Person-Centred Therapy is a non-directive approach meaning you won’t be taught a model or asked to do homework.

What Happens in Person-Centred Therapy?

You might be wondering what happens during a Person-Centred Therapy session? Well, it usually takes place in a cosy room where you and your counsellor can sit comfortably. You’ll be given the room to talk about anything you want—your worries, your dreams, or even your day-to-day life – while your counsellor listens carefully and encourages you to express yourself openly. From this you might come to understand things about your life and feelings that you didn’t see before.

What can you expect from your counsellor:

– They will use a caring approach.
– They’ll be listening attentively.
– They will accept you for who you are, no matter what.
– They won’t give you advice or tell you what to do.
– They’ll encourage you to discover your own answers.

Who Can Benefit from Person-Centred Therapy?

Person-Centred Therapy can help a wide range of people. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed with stress, dealing with sadness, or just trying to understand yourself better, this type of therapy can be a great option. It’s also helpful for anyone who is going through big life changes or wants to improve their relationships.

What Can I Expect After Therapy?

After attending Person-Centred Therapy, many people feel a sense of relief. They often leave sessions feeling lighter, as if they’ve shared a heavy load. From the space and autonomy, many also leave feeling empowered. You may also find that you have a better understanding of yourself and your feelings. This self-awareness can help you make choices that are right for you.

It’s important to remember that therapy is a journey, not a race. You might not have all the answers right away, and that’s completely okay! The goal is to take your time and move through the session at your own pace.

Finding a Person-Centred Therapist

If you think this type of therapy might be helpful for you, the next step is finding a therapist. In the UK, you can look for qualified counsellors through various organisations, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), Counselling Directory and Psychology Today. They have a list of counsellors who are trained and experienced in different types of therapy, including Person-Centred Therapy. I also work in this way so, if you’re interested, please feel free to read a little About Me or click here to contact me.

When you find a counsellor, don’t hesitate to ask questions. It’s important to feel comfortable with the person you choose to talk to. You can ask about their approach, their experience, and what you can expect from your sessions. Remember, this is all about you!

Let’s Wrap This Up!

Person-Centred Therapy is a warm and supportive way to explore your feelings and experiences. It puts you at the centre of your journey, allowing you to discover your own answers and insights. With the right counsellor by your side, you can feel safe and accepted as you navigate life’s ups and downs.

If you’re feeling curious or think that Person-Centred therapy could help you, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You deserve to be heard and understood, and this might just be the perfect place to start.

Still have questions? Feel free to check out my services or FAQs, alternatively you’re welcome to email me and I will do my very best to provide the answers.

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