“All individuals have within themselves the ability to guide
their own lives in a manner
that is both personally satisfying and socially constructive. In a particular type of
helping relationship, we
free the individuals to find their inner wisdom and confidence,
and they will make increasingly healthier and more constructive
choice.” (from The Carl
Rogers Reader, edited by H Kirschenbaum and V Henderson 1990)
Person-Centred or Client-Centred Counselling was developed by
the American psychologist Carl Rogers between the 1940’s and
50’s. He continued researching and expanding his theories for
the rest of his life. Initially he used the term Client-Centred
Therapy but as he took his work outside the therapy room, into
schools and the business world for example, he adopted the term
Person-Centred Approach.
Carl Rogers realised that self directed change would follow from
a client’s experience of a certain type of relationship. This
relationship is characterised by genuineness, non-judgemental
acceptance, caring and empathy. This theory was and still is
supported by significant amounts of research.
When I work with you as a
person-centred counsellor, I endeavour to create this type of
relationship, within a confidential environment in which you
will not be judged. I believe that this along with my empathic
understanding of you and my own genuine-ness in our relationship
and acceptance of you and your problems will enable you to find
the answers you may seek and to make changes in your life if
this is possible and what you want to do. I understand that
change is not always possible; especially for young people, but
as adults you may also feel unable to change the context of your
life for whatever reason. In this case, I offer my support as I
'walk alongside' you and this may help you to create change
within yourself that may make your life easier. During the first
session we will talk about the practicalities of working
together, such as how often we would meet, how long the sessions
would last and what my fee would be. Most of my clients come for
one hour, once a week. Some prefer to come for shorter or longer
sessions, more or less frequently. I am happy and normally I am
able to be flexible on both issues. My fee is also negotiated
during the first session, according to your ability to pay, up
to a maximum of £35 for 60 minutes. I firmly believe in the
usefulness of counselling and so want to be available to you, in
a way that suits you and whether you are able to pay my full fee
or not.
