‍Person-centred therapy is a much more personal approach to counselling. Previously, we looked at what person-centred therapy is. But how does person-centred therapy work? And what are the methods used by therapists? When practised effectively, person-centred therapy can help anyone reach their full potential and become their true self. But, if you were to undergo this type of therapy, what should you expect exactly?

How does person-centred therapy work?

Therapists and counsellors who use person-centred therapy offer clients an understanding, non-judgemental, honest and friendly approach that puts them immediately at ease. Instead of the therapist recommending a treatment plan, the individual will have the opportunity to choose the topic of conversation while in sessions. This way, the client is able to set the tone for the sessions and does not feel pressured into talking about anything they don’t feel ready to discuss. If you are facing depression, person-centred therapy can give you a much-needed outlet without becoming overwhelming. This example is also true for other mental health concerns, such as anxiety, stress or grief, which person-centred therapy is effective for too.Sometimes, giving an in-depth analysis of the difficulties you’re facing is not as helpful as you may have thought, and for some, it can feel quite daunting. With person-centred therapy, your therapist lets you lead the sessions while building their understanding of how the world works from your perspective. By sharing your feelings gradually, you can discuss past experiences or negative emotions after you have started to build a connection with your therapist, thus letting you build trust first. Person-centred therapy works to help increase your self-awareness and improve your clarity in any situation. In addition, it’s a practical approach that enhances your physical and mental health.

Person-centred therapy is an effective tool for dealing with difficult situations.

Person-centred therapy is highly effective for those who have experienced a traumatic event. It also works well for individuals experiencing symptoms of situational stressors, depression and anxiety. Instead of focusing on terms such as ‘patient’ or ‘diagnosis’, this approach allows your therapist to concentrate on you as a person, learning your thought processes and feelings so that you can work together to find a road to recovery.Person-centred therapy is always within a safe, secure and friendly environment, focusing on the present rather than the past, and it aims to encourage you to be more independent in your recovery process. While most clients will look to their therapist for the answers to questions they’ve been asking themselves for some time, person-centred therapy allows you to find the answer but with support and professional guidance.

What methods do therapists use in person-centred therapy?

Do you want to know what methods therapists use in person-centred therapy? Here’s everything you need to know:

Therapists will set clear boundaries.

Boundaries help maintain a healthy and professional relationship with your therapist. While your therapist is there for you to confide in, they’re effective in their techniques by separating themselves from your world. Not to mention, within person-centred therapy, we will only focus on the topics that you wish to focus on, staying clear of sensitive areas that could be triggering for you. Then, once you are ready to talk about them, we will do so at your own pace - and with extreme care and consideration. These boundaries can always be addressed when needed.

Therapists will remain positive.

At no point will your therapist use a negative tone, as this can have a domino effect. Person-centred therapy aims to help you openly communicate about your experiences and how they make you feel but in a positive, supportive and friendly environment. If you prefer, we can slow the pace of the sessions or take breaks, whatever makes you feel most comfortable. If you are becoming overwhelmed by negative thoughts, a change of pace is always helpful.

Therapists will actively listen.

Yes, therapy does require you to talk about your thoughts and feelings but never forget that your therapist is there to listen and wants to listen. We aim to pick up on crucial details of your thought processes and highlight them if they could be helpful in your recovery. We can then help clarify your point of view by asking you relevant questions that open up new doors for you. Many people cloud their thoughts and feelings or simply bottle them up, but it only takes someone who consciously listens to help you bring down your barriers.

Therapists are calming.

Therapists undergo years of training to be able to manage any situation. If you are discussing a negative event from your past, we will always remain calm and supportive, allowing you to feel comfortable speaking about such a tender subject. Our job is to help you work through these difficult moments and leave the other side feeling as though a weight has been lifted… hopefully for good. Negative thoughts are natural, everybody has them, but they should never be ignored. This can only cause bigger issues down the line. However, for balance, we can also focus on the more positive thoughts and feelings you’re experiencing. Therefore, always sustaining a calming atmosphere.Person-centred therapy is a one-of-a-kind counselling approach that helps people to recover and reach their maximum potential. As a person-centred counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire, I have a wealth of experience in helping my clients feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues openly and finding resolutions based on my countless years of experience. If you would like to learn more about how I work or book a session, please visit my website.