Humanistic Therapies Module 70

Humanistic Therapies Developed by Carl Rogers (1902–1987) Type of Insight Therapy – goal is to reduce inner conflicts by providing insight so client can grow Emphasizes human potential, self- awareness, and free-will Focus on self-perception and individual’s conscious thoughts and perceptions Client-centered (or person-centered) therapy is the most common form of humanistic therapy

Client-Centered Therapy Therapist listens without interpreting and does not direct the client (patient) to any particular insight. Therapist must not make decisions for the client, offer solutions, or pass judgment on the client’s thoughts or feelings. Rogers deliberately used the word client rather than patient to avoid the idea that the person was “sick” and could be “cured”

Client-Centered Therapy Therapist uses techniques such as active listening Facilitates the client’s growth by showing: –Empathy –Acceptance –Genuineness

Therapeutic Conditions Empathetic understanding - creates a psychological mirror reflecting clients thoughts and feelings –Accomplished through active listening Genuineness—therapist openly shares thoughts without defensiveness Acceptance – NO conditions on acceptance of person –Accomplished through unconditional positive regard for client

Active Listening Empathic listening in which the listener echoes, restates and clarifies. Active listening entails: –Paraphrasing: uses the words of the client to summarize the conversation –Clarifying: encouraging the client to say more by asking leading questions –Reflecting feelings: mirrors the feelings of the client

Active Listening Characteristics

Results of Good Humanistic Therapy Rogers thought if clients are treated with unconditional positive regard, empathy, & genuineness, the client will explore their feelings & thoughts. Exploring their thoughts & feelings in an accepting environment will lead the client to change their attitudes & behavior. This approach very successful with dealing with client’s day-to-day concerns, anxiety & depression Not very successful in treating psychotic patients like those with severe schizophrenia.

Boundaries to the Therapist–Client Relationship

Therapist–Client Relationship Therapy is a collaborative effort between you and the therapist. Don’t expect your therapist to make decisions for you Your therapist is not a substitute friend Therapeutic intimacy does not include sexual intimacy –it is never ethical or appropriate for a therapist to have any form of sexual contact with a client Expect therapy to challenge how you think and act Don’t confuse insight with change Don’t expect change to happen overnight