Psychotherapy aims to increase a person’s sense of their own well-being, helping them to become ‘unstuck’, and so to achieve their potential.
There are many different approaches to psychotherapy. The goal of Humanistic therapy is to help people become more self-aware and accepting of themselves. Humanistic therapists focus on conscious rather than unconscious thoughts.
Psychologist Carl Rogers developed client-centered therapy, as he felt that the term “patient” suggested the person seeking help was sick and looking for a cure. This therapy is non-directive. The therapist does not give advice or provide interpretations, but helps the client to identify conflicts and understand feelings. Importance is placed on the person taking control of their own life to overcome challenges.
The therapist actively listens to their client, offering acknowledgment, reflection, and clarification. Therapists do not judge clients, they simply accept them for who they are.
Your therapist should demonstrate genuineness, empathy, and acceptance towards you, because this helps you become more accepting of yourself, which results in personal growth.