The person-centered model is a process directed by the person and considers the individual’s strengths, goals, preferences, and desired outcomes. The person-centered approach is not new. It is a theory that is taught to individuals in school who are studying to become therapists.
However, the person-centered approach isn’t just something that a corporation or therapist utilize within a professional setting. Its process has values that can be incorporated in the very being of all. Person-centered therapy was pioneered by Carl Rogers in the early 1940’s.
According to Rogers, “people are inherently motivated toward achieving positive psychological functioning.”[1] Additionally, “the client is believed to be the expert in their life and leads the general direction of therapy, while the therapist takes a non-directive role.”[2]
Rogers identifies three core conditions that are necessary for positive outcome: accurate empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. The therapist practices accurate empathy by active listening and careful attention to the individual’s feelings and thoughts.
Congruence involves the therapist being transparent with their feelings and thoughts that relate to the person being seen. Unconditional positive regard is communicated through an environment that is safe and the individual feels they are accepted unconditionally.
The purpose of this writing is to briefly explain Carl Rogers core conditions and highlight how each can be implemented not only in a therapeutic realm, but also in the daily life of all individuals. The three conditions promote personal wellbeing, encourage healthy relationships, and can be utilized in any environment and with all people.
A person-centered approach does not mean we do whatever the individual wants us to do as care providers. It does not involve unlimited tolerance or lack of boundaries. The idea that person-centered means we have to accommodate them 100% is a misconception. Yes, the individual is the “expert in their own life” yet sometimes their goals or habits do not the support positive psychological functioning. When they are choosing to engage in unhealthy patterns of communication or engagement, we are not obligated to join them.
As a service provider, you can reflect on any incongruence you are experiencing with your thoughts or feelings about the individual. Is the unconditional positive regard not working in this moment? How so? Is it a you-problem, or is it genuinely a result of the individual’s expectations or engagement with you that does not promote their wellbeing or encourage healthy relationships?
If either of these areas are violated, it is up to the individual to communicate the concerns. Demonstrating healthy boundaries that are in alignment with your own needs, and theirs, fosters their growth towards positive well-being. This must always be tempered with empathy and genuine care.
Furthermore, any natural consequences that evolve due to the individual’s choices should not be interrupted by the person-centered approach. When it is practiced authentically, the individual is made aware of possible negative outcomes and given healthier choices to consider.
The person-centered approach will look different for each individual. This is a reminder that all are unique, and their autonomy valued. Through the person-centered approach, it is possible for individuals to lead a happier and more fulfilling life by incorporating authenticity and genuineness.
“Becoming” is a title of a book by Carl Rogers. We are all on the journey of becoming more authentic. As we live a more congruent life, where our behaviors, thoughts and feelings are in alignment with our own values and goals, we get to experience the positive psychological well-being Rogers’ described that comes with an authentic life. From that place of freedom and peace, it becomes easier to extend genuine unconditional positive regard towards others.
Brooke Cooper, PhD, LCPC, NCC
[1] Yao, K. L. (2023, February 9). Person-Centered Therapy. National Library of Medicine National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved June 2, 2024, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589708/.
[2] Yao, K. L. (2023, February 9). Person-Centered Therapy. National Library of Medicine National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved June 2, 2024, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589708/.
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