Client/Person - Centered Therapy Theory

Question 1

Client/Person-Centered Therapy

Theory of Change

Answer 1

Change occurs by creating conditions for the client to grow through the therapeutic relationship with the presence of three essential components: congruence/genuineness, unconditional positive regard, and empathy.
A humanistic theory.

Question 2

Client/Person-Centered Therapy

Role of the Therapist

Answer 2

•Therapist is non-directive.
•A facilitator (helper) who sets the stage and believes the client is able to do what is necessary for growth and change, self
-actualization. Client determines goals of therapy.

Question 3

Client/Person-Centered Therapy

Treatment Goals

Answer 3

• Self-acceptance
• Congruence between client’s idealized and actual selves
• Increased self-understanding
• Decreased levels of defensiveness, insecurity, and guilt
• More positive relationships and increased comfort with others
• Increased ability to experience and express feelings in the here and now

Question 4

Client/Person-Centered Therapy
Key Concepts

•Congruence:

Answer 4

Therapist’s genuineness with client, shares his/her feelings
honestly, does not hide behind professional facade—therapist is transparent with feelings, thoughts, and beliefs

Question 5

Client/Person-Centered Therapy
Key Concepts

•Unconditional Positive Regard

Answer 5

Complete acceptance of the client, a nonjudgmental respect of client and his/her feelings allows clients to feel less anxious about their perceived weaknesses and taking risks.

Question 6

Client/Person-Centered Therapy
Key Concepts

•Empathy:

Answer 6

Therapist accurately senses the feelings and personal meanings
the client is experiencing and is able to communicate this understanding to the client

Question 7

Client/Person-Centered Therapy
Key Concepts

•Self-Actualization:

Answer 7

Innate tendency of all human beings to reach their fullest potential

Question 8

Client/Person-Centered Therapy
Key Concepts

•Locus of Control:

Answer 8

Through the therapeutic relationship, client is able to take control of their lives rather than follow the direction of others who were previously in control.

Question 9

Client/Person-Centered Therapy
Key Concepts

•Non-Directive Therapy:

Answer 9

Clients are allowed to lead the discussion.