Person Centred Therapy
What is the Person-Centred Approach?
The Person-Centred Approach, also known as Person-Centred Therapy, is a gentle and respectful form of talk therapy that’s all about you—your experience, your feelings, and your natural ability to grow and heal.
This approach is based on the belief that people are inherently good and have everything they need inside themselves to make positive changes. The therapist’s job isn’t to fix you or tell you what to do, but to create a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental space where you can explore who you really are.
A Brief History
Person-Centred Therapy was developed in the 1940s and 50s by psychologist Carl Rogers, who believed that people thrive when they feel heard, accepted, and understood. He challenged the more medical, expert-driven approaches of the time and instead focused on real, human connection.
Rogers found that people naturally grow and change when they feel emotionally safe—and that therapy works best when there’s genuine trust and empathy between client and therapist.
What Can CBT Help With?
CBT can support people dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, phobias, and even some physical health issues. It’s also useful for managing everyday struggles like low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and coping with change.
Change or healing occurs when
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Unconditional Positive Regard
This means the therapist offers genuine warmth, care, and acceptance, no matter what you’re feeling, thinking, or going through. You don’t have to hide any part of yourself to be worthy of support.
It’s not about agreeing with everything you do—it’s about holding space without judgment, so you can feel safe enough to be honest and real.
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Congruence (Genuineness)
This means the therapist is authentic and honest, not hiding behind a professional mask or acting like they have all the answers. They show up as a real human being in the room with you—while still being caring, respectful, and focused on your needs.
When the therapist is genuine, it makes it easier for you to be real too.
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Empathy
Empathy is the therapist’s ability to deeply understand your experience from your point of view—not just intellectually, but emotionally. It’s about really “getting you” and showing that through presence, tone, and understanding.
When someone truly feels with you, it helps you feel less alone—and more connected to yourself.