|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Person-Centred Counselling
The person-centred
approach was developed in the 1940’s and 1950’s by Carl Rogers and is essentially
a philosophy rather than a technique.
In direct contrast
to the pessimism of Freudian theories and analytical methods, person-centred
counselling is rooted in humanistic philosophy that has an inherently optimistic
view of the individual and a belief that each person has the capacity to
move in the direction of more fulfilling and satisfying ways of being and
living their lives. It is based on a trust in the inner resources of each
individual to find their own answers and direction and this is achieved
when the client is able to understand his/her own true limitations and
potentialities by exploring how he/she experiences himself, promoting greater
self awareness and acceptance and thus empowering the individual to make
their own choices and control their own lives.
Alongside this view
of human nature is a theory of personality based on ‘conditions of worth’
that are transmitted via parents and significant others during childhood.
These conditions are demonstrated in various ways causing us to construct
a self concept, or way of being, which will elicit love, approval and acceptance.
This, in turn, colours our perception of ourselves and in varying degrees,
depending on the extent to which we have been judged and criticised, compromises
our internal valuing process and inhibits our natural tendency of feeling,
behaving and living in an authentic way.
(Andrea M, 2000)