Person-centered therapy uses a non-authoritative approach that allows clients to take more of a lead in discussions so that, in the process, they will discover their own solutions. This therapy approach is based on the premise that only the client has enough knowledge of themselves to set effective and desirable goals for therapy. The therapist acts as a compassionate facilitator, listening without judgment and acknowledging the client’s experience without moving the conversation in another direction. The therapist is there to encourage and support the client and to guide the therapeutic process without interrupting or interfering with the client’s process of self-discovery.
The general goals of person-centered therapy are to:
- Facilitate personal growth and development
- Eliminate or mitigate feelings of distress
- Increase self-esteem and openness to experience
- Enhance the client’s understanding of themselves
- Better understanding and awareness
- Decreased defensiveness, insecurity, and guilt
- Greater trust in oneself
- Healthier relationships
- Improved self-expression
- Improved mental health overall