Ch. 19 S. 3 : The Humanistic Approach Obj: Identify the primary goals and methods of humanistic therapy.
The Humanistic Approach The primary goal of humanistic therapy is to help individuals reach their full potential. It does this by helping individuals develop self-awareness and self-acceptance.
The method assumes that most people are basically good and have a natural tendency to strive for self-actualization – that is, to become all that they are capable of being. The method also assumes that people with psychological problems merely need help tapping their inner resources so that they can grow and reach their full potential.
Person-Centered Therapy Person-centered therapy was developed in the early 1950’s by psychologist Carl Rogers. According to Rogers, psychological problems arise when people stop being true to themselves and instead act as others want or expect them to act.
The role of therapy is to help clients find their true selves and realize their unique potential. Person-centered therapy is sometimes called client-centered therapy. Clients are seen as equals in a working relationship with the therapist rather than as inferiors who are ill.
Clients are encouraged to take the lead in therapy, talking openly about whatever may be troubling them. This method is called nondirective therapy because it is not directed by the therapist. The therapist's role is to act as a mirror, reflecting client’s thoughts and feelings back so that the clients can see themselves more clearly.
Techniques of Person-Centered Therapy Active listening is a widely used communication technique in which the listener repeats, rephrases, and asks for clarification of the statements made by the speaker.
Facial expressions and body language are also important Facial expressions and body language are also important. The goal is to convey to the speaker that his or her words are being heard and that his or her thoughts and feelings are being understood.
The therapist also must remain nonjudgmental, accepting, and supportive, regardless of what the client says, providing what Rogers calls unconditional positive regard. The acceptance and support of the therapist help the client accept himself or herself and his or her true feelings.
Self-esteem also rises, giving the client the confidence to make his or her own choices, take responsibility for those decisions, and form healthy relationships.
Other Applications Person-centered therapy is practiced widely by school and college counselors. It not only helps students deal with anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems but also helps students make decisions. Counselors try to provide a supportive atmosphere in which students feel free to explore alternatives and make their own choices.
Evaluation of Humanistic Therapy In a review of several studies, nearly three fourths of people obtaining person-centered therapy showed greater well-being, on average, than people who did not receive therapy.
Like PsyA, person-centered therapy seems to be most helpful for well-educated, motivated people. Humanistic therapy in general works best for people who experience anxiety, mild depression, or problems in their social relationships. However, it is ineffective for people who have major depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.