In terms of counselling theorists, Carl Rogers is easily my hero. His emphasis on a strong, genuine therapeutic relationship just seems to fit me! Empathy is something that comes quite naturally to me, and therefore, Client-centered therapy, created by Rogers is my preferred approach to counselling.
Carl Rogers began his work in psychology at the Rochester Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (Boeree, 2006). This is where he began to construct his ideas around the powerfulness of the therapeutic relationship as being the central factor in client change. He went on to teach and practice at the University of Chicago, where he pioneered the humanist movement (Corey, 2009).
I will expand on these terms more in my section, "Theoretical Orientation" but for now, it is important to mention that Rogers believed in unconditional positive regard for his clients. This means conveying a sense of acceptance for the client. It does not mean that the therapist necessarily approves of everything the client does, but it means that the therapist continues to see the basic value of the human sitting in front of her or him (Boeree, 2006).
I first came to truly grasp this term when I did a six month practicum at the Fred Victor Shelter, working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction problems and mental health issues. Many of the people living in this shelter had at one time been in the prison system, and some had committed crimes that were, to be perfectly honest, horrific. However, it was not my job to judge them. Rather, I strived to see the human that had been wounded somewhere along the line (often numerous times) and connect with that person. I believe each of us are inherently good people, and we are also capable of doing bad things sometimes. A therapeutic relationship where the client senses acceptance from the therapist can be the perfect environment from which to heal, and bring out the 'goodness' in the person.
Carl Roger's demonstration of this acceptance is something I strive to convey in my sessions. Have a look at him at work with Gloria, a client from the 1960's dealing with issues of dating and being a single mother:
Carl Rogers began his work in psychology at the Rochester Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (Boeree, 2006). This is where he began to construct his ideas around the powerfulness of the therapeutic relationship as being the central factor in client change. He went on to teach and practice at the University of Chicago, where he pioneered the humanist movement (Corey, 2009).
I will expand on these terms more in my section, "Theoretical Orientation" but for now, it is important to mention that Rogers believed in unconditional positive regard for his clients. This means conveying a sense of acceptance for the client. It does not mean that the therapist necessarily approves of everything the client does, but it means that the therapist continues to see the basic value of the human sitting in front of her or him (Boeree, 2006).
I first came to truly grasp this term when I did a six month practicum at the Fred Victor Shelter, working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction problems and mental health issues. Many of the people living in this shelter had at one time been in the prison system, and some had committed crimes that were, to be perfectly honest, horrific. However, it was not my job to judge them. Rather, I strived to see the human that had been wounded somewhere along the line (often numerous times) and connect with that person. I believe each of us are inherently good people, and we are also capable of doing bad things sometimes. A therapeutic relationship where the client senses acceptance from the therapist can be the perfect environment from which to heal, and bring out the 'goodness' in the person.
Carl Roger's demonstration of this acceptance is something I strive to convey in my sessions. Have a look at him at work with Gloria, a client from the 1960's dealing with issues of dating and being a single mother:
Another inspiration in my life is my mum. She is a strong woman who always stood behind me, cheering me on. Even when I didn't believe in myself, my mum did. She made me who I am today.
My mum Nancy is a successful business owner, something I find inspiring as a woman to create on her own. She is smart, talented and hard-working. An excellent feminist role-model!
My mum Nancy is a successful business owner, something I find inspiring as a woman to create on her own. She is smart, talented and hard-working. An excellent feminist role-model!
Sandy is the first therapist that gave me a chance. She asked me to help her run a teen therapy group while I was in my undergraduate program. She told me that she believed in me, and this confidence has stayed with me throughout my career. I still consult with her from time to time. Here we are at my wedding, having a great time!
Sandy is a full-time psychotherapist working in her own practice in Cobourg, Ontario.
Sandy is a full-time psychotherapist working in her own practice in Cobourg, Ontario.
References:
Boeree, G.C. (2006). Carl Rogers. Retrieved online from: http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/rogers.html
Corey, G. (2009). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (8th Ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Psychological Films. (1965). Carl Rogers and Gloria. [Video File]. Retrieved online from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24d-FEptYj8
Boeree, G.C. (2006). Carl Rogers. Retrieved online from: http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/rogers.html
Corey, G. (2009). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (8th Ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.
Psychological Films. (1965). Carl Rogers and Gloria. [Video File]. Retrieved online from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24d-FEptYj8