A Guide to Person-centred Counselling

Developed in the 1950’s from the work of American psychologist Carl Rogers,
person-centred counselling helps people by creating an open, safe space to talk.

The person-centred approach teaches therapists a specific way in which to respond to the clients’ personal experiences. Many people feel that the basic principles of person-centred counselling are essential for any type of therapy to be effective.

What is person-centred counselling?

The person-centred approach believes in each person’s capacity to find their own answers to life’s problems and their own ways to cope with life experiences. Person-centred counselling is an approach to therapy based on the idea that natural human potential can be facilitated and encouraged by a unique, trusting relationship between the client and the therapist.

A person-centred therapist believes in the client’s potential for self-fulfilment and offers support, guidance and structure so that the client can discover within themselves their own solutions to any personal issues. In person-centered therapy, the focus is on the person, not the problem. Most person-centred therapists will not challenge or direct a client. Instead, clients are allowed to express themselves in any way they choose. Person-centred therapy believes answers to the clients questions lie within the client and not the therapist.

Person-centred therapists are non-judgmental and believe that life experiences and personal life choices result from a complex set of psychological and emotional forces. Therefore, person-centred therapists do not judge a client’s behaviour or personal choices. The person-centred therapist does not see one type of life or lifestyle as being better than another. The person-centred approach allows the client and therapist freedom to talk openly about anything in a private and non-judgemental environment.

What are the essential components of the person-centred approach?

The person-centred approach to counselling includes a set of basic principles or conditions that person-centred therapists closely follow. These principles help therapists understand the client’s life experiences from the client’s point of view. A key component of the person-centred approach is that the therapist does not act as an expert on the client’s life, but instead supports and motivates each client towards their own potential for personal development and change. The person-centred approach is somewhat based on the concept that the client is the only ‘expert’ on himself.

Empathy is an essential part of the person-centred approach. Empathy is the ability of one person to understand and respect the life experiences, feelings and choices of another person. Through empathy, person-centred therapists maintain an unconditional positive regard for their clients and it is within this important framework of empathy and acceptance that effective therapy takes place.

It is no surprise that person-centred counselling appeals to many people. It is a client-led, non-judgemental approach that gives the client control over what is discussed in therapy. Many people are attracted to the informal, compassionate nature of this warm and relational counselling approach. Unlike cognitive behavioural therapy, person-centred counselling does not usually involve techniques or homework between sessions and unlike psychodynamic psychotherapy, the person-centred approach does not always focus on past events in a client’s life. Person-centred counselling is often about what’s going on in a person’s life now.

Some advantages of the person-centred approach include:

• Person-centred therapy focuses on the here and now, rather than the past, and encourages the client to think about what’s currently going on emotionally and psychologically
• The person-centred approach trusts in the client’s personal capacity for self-development and self-fulfilment
• The person-centred approach encourages self-awareness, authenticity, honesty, self-acceptance and self-trust
• The person-centred approach is usually seen as less formal and less structured than some other types of therapy
• The person-centred approach allows the client to set his own goals and move at his own pace

What types of issues can be addressed with person-centred counselling?

Though most life issues can be helped using person-centred counselling, these issues, especially, may benefit from this relational approach to therapy:

Is the person-centred approach effective?

For most people, yes. The core conditions of the person-centred approach to therapy make it one of the most popular forms of therapy. It is often seen as a gentler approach to therapy and less formal than some other types of therapy. Progress in person-centred counselling results from the unique relationship that develops between the client and the therapist. This healthy relationship between client and therapist is, over time, built on trust. Through being non-judgmental, open and approachable, person-centred therapists are able to form warm and supportive relationships with clients in a private and confidential setting. It is this unique, private therapeutic relationship that enables personal development and change.

With the person-centred approach, the client leads the way. Discussions in therapy are initiated and led by the client and the client can speak about anything on his mind. The therapist is trained to encourage these discussions and to draw from the sessions useful insights and clarity about the client’s perspectives on life and life issues.

In short, person-centred counsellors provide favourable conditions and a unique environment in which clients may come to terms with negative feelings, difficult emotions and other personal issues. All of our counsellors and psychotherapists have some training and experience in the person-centred approach. If you would like more information about person-centred counselling, please get in touch.

Person-centred counselling is just one type of therapy we provide in London

While person-centred counselling is a popular and effective type of therapy, there are also other kinds of therapy that we offer in central London. Our therapists are trained and experienced in several different types of counselling and you may want to read more information about other types of counselling and psychotherapy that we offer:

integrative psychotherapy | psychodynamic psychotherapy | psychoanalytic psychotherapy | cognitive behavioural therapy

Getting started with person-centred counselling

Your first appointment will be an opportunity to discuss your hopes in therapy and we can advise you on whether person-centred counselling is the best therapy for your specific needs. As well as counselling in person at our London centres, we also offer online counselling. To book your first meeting with one of our therapists, please telephone us on 0333 207 9330 or you may book your first appointment online.

If this is your first experience of therapy, you may find that setting out to begin therapy can feel confusing. There are many types of therapy in London and many kinds of therapists. We have put together a list of frequently-asked questions about therapy together with our answers that may be helpful.

If you would prefer a therapist who is trained in person-centred counselling, please tell us your preferences at the time of booking your appointment.

If you feel now is the time to meet with a therapist to discuss any issues or concerns in your life, we may be able to offer the support you need. Please get in touch to make a first appointment. We will usually respond to you within 24 hours.

Person-centred counselling means our clients can discuss anything in therapy together in confidence with one of our experienced counsellors or psychotherapists.

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4.4

Based on 36 reviews

One Therapy London

4.4

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Ana

19:38 11 Jun 21

I have just finished my last session with Ben Marks today after almost a year of therapy. Ben has helped me a lot in the last year and as a result I have seen so much progress in my personal life since I came to see him a year ago (in my work, social life and relationships). I am very happy with where I am right now in all areas of my life and going to therapy has played a huge role in that. I am also very happy to say that Ben has helped me with many practical things that I can continue to use as coping mechanisms even when not going to therapy.

Fabian Brighi

22:19 07 May 21

Professionalism and quality of therapy go way beyond any expectations. Was able to talk freely and openly, felt supported and understood, challenged and eventually learnt so much from the experience. Thank you Ben!

Stephen Nock

10:53 22 Mar 21

I only attended 2 sessions at one therapy (solely because I wanted to find somewhere closer to home) but found the 2 sessions I did have extremely useful to help me find a strategy for dealing with a short term relationship crisis. Highly recommended 😊

Graeme Padden

12:29 17 Dec 20

One Therapy provided a very professional service and kept me up to date with any communcation I needed, especially with the changing circumstances of this years events. The therapy itself was always conducted in a way where I felt comfortable, and done sensitively. It gave me confidence in how my needs were being handled and I would definitely recommend them.

Lin

13:58 16 Sep 20

Beauty Bee

13:56 16 Sep 20

Charlie Timson

12:53 08 Jul 20

My experience with One Therapy really helped me form a relationship with my mental health that I didn't have before. I feel more confident and comfortable in myself than I ever have. In terms of the therapy itself, my therapist made me feel comfortable and allowed me to open up with trust. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking into getting therapy.

William Antoniazzi

08:53 15 Jun 20

Great help and support just when I needed it. I am so grateful to my therapist for her help. Thank you, One Therapy.Will.

Milly Newman

18:26 07 Feb 20

We had couples therapy sessions with Delia at One Therapy for about 8 months. Delia made us feel comfortable pretty much instantly, but she didn't let us off easy! She challenged us and pushed us to open up (especially me, usually otherwise a closed book!) We initially started going as an alternative to traditional "marriage prep" courses which the church were offering. We knew that we had a couple of issues we'd really like to sort out before we got married, and in doing so we started to work through a lot of our own individual baggage too. Doing this together, in front of each other, definitely made us closer. It helped us to understand each other, which in turn helps us to communicate and to make each other happy. Therapy isn't a quick fix - it's not a magical process in which everything gets sorted out and you leave with a perfect relationship, but Delia definitely gave us some valuable insight and dished out a few light bulb moments which made us say "of course, that makes perfect sense, that's why I do that!". Over time we've made an effort to remember what she taught us about ourselves and each other, and we are much stronger because of it. I highly recommend Delia I think she's fantastic at what she does!

R M

21:51 22 Oct 19

I can’t recommend One Therapy enough. My experience with Ben was absolutely delightful, well as delightful as therapy can ever be I suppose. We got along from the jump and what followed was months of hard work but I’m so grateful to Ben for being a great listener, compassionate therapist and just providing a safe space for me to explore my thoughts and feelings. He is the right blend of supportive and yet challenging. I will forever be thankful for the work we did during our time together because I feel like a better me because of it.

James Fraser

13:40 15 Oct 19

The space provided by One Therapy is very welcoming and relaxing. My time with Ben was amazing. He made me feel comfortable enough to discuss any subject and feel completely supported and not judged. He was friendly and caring and helped me think through things in ways I wouldn’t have done so by myself. It was and excellent choice for therapy and I would highly recommend One Therapy to anyone!

Nicola French

15:46 13 Oct 19

Very good experience in every way: responsive and helpful after my initial contact, flexible with appointment time to accommodate work, supportive yet challenging therapist. Definitely recommend.

Kat Seale

11:01 27 Sep 19

My experience with Delia was one that has stuck with me since our very first session together over two years ago now. When I began I was quite cautious and unsure about whether therapy was for me, but over the sessions I gradually found myself relaxing into the pace with the help of Delia's patience and kindness. Working our way through each concern I brought to Delia, and by looking back at my past experiences, we were able to learn a lot about the hows and whys of my behaviour in certain difficult situations, which allowed me to tackle new arising situations from a place of more understanding. I would often leave the sessions feeling lighter than I did when I came in, and what we had discussed that day would stay with me for the next week, which allowed me the chance to observe our findings in action as well as change the way I acted according to what we had discussed. Since our sessions ended I find myself referring back to some of the things Delia taught me whenever other tricky or difficult situations in life arise, particularly in my relationships with friends, family and my wonderful girlfriend, and in doing so I am able to approach them from a more thoughtful and understanding position. Delia was always very kind, patient and understanding, and when needed she was able to - as we referred to it - "hold those feelings" that I wasn't yet able to fully sit with on my own, which I am ever grateful for. I will always be very grateful for everything Delia helped me with, and would wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking therapy.

Patrick Heneghan

09:42 16 Sep 19

Sze Wing Choi

20:15 15 Sep 19

Delia is so wonderful! She's professional, kind, understanding and insightful. Would recommend to anyone.

Nick Pahl

18:49 15 Sep 19

Sarah Adewale

07:01 29 Aug 19

I attended One Therapy London and did sessions for a year. I found the sessions extremely helpful and would recommend anyone considering Therapy to give it a go. I feel it has benefited my mental health tremendously. Absolutely everyone I worked with at One Therapy were extremely professional, polite and attentive. A great experience all round.

Juliana Lopes

17:56 04 Aug 19

One Therapy London played an essential role helping me deal with important personal issues, and I always felt comfortable speaking with my therapist, who would make relevant remarks and challenge my truths without being judgemental. If I am now at a completely different stage in my life, I believe the sessions I had at One Therapy London were instrumental in my journey to reconnect with myself, as cliché as it may sound.I can't recommend it enough.

Kat Na

10:55 27 Jul 19

Great, helpful sessions that helped me go through a rough time and understand what helps me cope better. My therapist, Kate was very professional and always punctual. She had a very efficient approach, was always calm and careful with her responses and had a very positive, calm aura. I'd like to thank her for all her help and guidance! As for the company itself, it would be good if cancellation policies were less rigid and strict.

karen mattock

15:04 26 Jul 19

My only reference for One Therapy were the reviews I read online and I consider myself incredible fortunate to of found a therapist that was incredible knowledgeable and insightful who provided me with the tools I needed to deal with the lost of my brother and a massive relationship challenge. I wholeheartedly recommend Josephine.

Elias Lorenzzi

12:58 17 Jan 19

I was impressed with One Therapy right from the beginning. They were warm, professional and they answered my initial emails very quickly. Making my first appointment with them was an easy experience.I want to thank my therapist more than anything else. We spent almost 6 months together talking about my life. So much happened in our sessions and I felt like she was able to understand me in ways that I had not been able to before. She gave me a new perspective on myself and for her help I’m very grateful.I cannot recommend One Therapy highly enough. Again, I just want to say ‘thanks’.

M Dantas

14:18 15 Jan 19

After going through a very difficult time, this was my first experience of counselling. My meetings with my therapist were more helpful than I had expected. She was patient and I felt we had a good connection. I want to thank One Therapy for their help. I would recommend this service to anyone looking for therapy. Thank you.

Marjia Monsur

21:29 04 Aug 18

My therapist Mita Hiremath was an absolute delight, her warm and compassionate nature created a very safe and supportive environment, which enabled me to face some very deep and personal matters and ulitmately get through the most difficult period of my life. She helped me find myself again, start trusting myself again, love life again. It wasn't an easy journey but I have now completely turned my life around and owe a great deal to Mita. I would encourage anyone considering therapy to take the plunge and would highly recommend One Therapy as a reliable and professional service.

ElectricFilms

00:10 30 Aug 17

I have been receiving outstanding, compassionate and intelligent support from my therapist from day one. Eye-opening, life-changing, life-saving and worth every penny.

Jeff Moody

20:50 03 Oct 16

I can't recommend this service highly enough. The support I received from my counsellor in Brighton made all the difference in my life. Thank you

Katya Larina

15:32 20 Sep 16

I was attending sessions at Onetherapy practice for about 1,5 year. I am very happy with the result, sessions there really helped me. I am really grateful to my therapist, someone recommended him to me as a high professional and it proved right, thank you

hon diec

12:35 19 Sep 16

I approach One Therapy for short term counselling in May this year. I felt good about my therapist right from the beginning and the sessions with her were so useful. It helped me to resolve some issues in my career. I felt more confident to deal with the problems and stress at work.I would recommend One Therapy.

A Google User

16:15 14 Sep 14

I was recommended Psychotherapy UK by a friend, and would now not hesitate to recommend them to others. From my first session – although it's difficult to be open straightaway – I was made to feel comfortable. The consultation rooms were also clean and beautifully decorated.Sessions were directed by what I wanted to discuss that week, and I never felt pressured. The counsellors are very skilled, and some of the challenges/advice sent my way have stayed with me many years later!

Nicolas Aubry

20:39 06 Jun 14

I had debated for a long time about getting therapy for a number of personal issues as I was sceptical about whether these could be helped through talking to a complete stranger. I finally decided to take the plunge and I called Psychotherapy UK. I immediately felt completely at ease as they were very professional while showing genuine care and interest in helping me. The therapy was tailored to my specific needs and with their help, I was able to confront many issues which I had so far chosen to ignore despite their negative effects on my personal relationships and happiness. I would have no hesitation in recommending Psychotherapy UK to anyone looking to improve their relationships and self-esteem.

Mike Dolan

14:12 02 Jun 14

I had been to a variety of different services both NHS and non-NHS, but in the end I found that Psychotherapy UK Counselling Services was suited for me. My therapist gave me a sense of comfortability and ease I couldn't find with the other services, which was essential for me to open up.It is a commitment but in the end, I felt I had the tools needed to over come the issues which prohibited me going forward.For me the long term effects became evident with my ability to pounce back and deal with problems more constructively.They accommodated the price to my lifestyle and they always were patient and accepting to my individual preconceptions and scepticisms.The main thing I liked was the fact that I was always to made feel welcomed back.I highly recommend their services, and once making the step, you will not regret it.

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