Client-centered Theory

(Humanistic)
NNR-NHNJ-NSH

The History of Client-centered

Theory
Evolved in the USA during the 1950s.
Is a non-directive form of talk therapy
developed by Carl Rogers.
This therapy moved away from the idea
that the therapist was the expert and
towards a theory that trusted the innate
tendency (known as the actualising
tendency) of human beings to find
fulfilment of their personal potentials.

Client-centered Theory
Rogers believed that people are
fundamentally good.
He also believed that people have an
actualizing tendency, or a desire to
fulfill their potential and become the
best people they can be.
Self-direction plays a vital part of
client-centered therapy.

 In this theory, the client is

responsible for improving his or her
life, not the therapist.
The client consciously and rationally
decides for themselves what is wrong
and what should be done about it.
The therapist is more of a friend or
counselor who listens and
encourages on an equal level.

 Rogers believed that the therapist

should remain non-directive
<should not direct the client,
should not pass judgments on
the clients feeling and should
not offer suggestions or
solutions. THE CLIENT SHOULD
BE THE ONE IN CONTROL>

3 Key Qualities of A Client-centered

Therapist

i) Congruence
The therapist is authentic and
genuine.
He does not present an aloof faade,
but is present and transparent to the
client.

ii) Unconditional positive

regards

A real, caring and respect for the

other person knowing the person has
the capacity for self-direction.
In short, the therapist needs an
attitude of Ill accept you as you
are

iii) Empathy
The therapist accurately understands
the clients thoughts, feelings and
meanings from the clients own
perspective.