Spent two rewarding days (10th – 11th July 2024) teaching basic counselling skills (PCT modalities) to our dedicated civil servants from different ministries. My consultancy work involves designing and delivering training sessions that equip participants with essential basic counselling skills, enabling them to better support the mental health and wellbeing of their colleagues and communities in their daily routines. Through this workshop, I aim to enhance the emotional intelligence, communication, and enhancing the listening skills (seek to understand rather than to response in the interaction) of civil servants, fostering a more empathetic and responsive public service environment. Proud to support their growth and reinforce our commitment to empowering organizations.
Understanding Person-Centred Therapy
What is Person-Centred Therapy?
Person-centred therapy (PCT), developed by psychologist Carl Rogers in the 1940s and 1950s, is a type of psychotherapy that emphasizes the individual’s capacity for self-healing and personal growth. It is built on the belief that every person has the potential to understand themselves and make positive changes in their lives. It is believe that as a healthy individual, they have their internal resources to problem solving.
Key Principles:
- Unconditional Positive Regard: In person-centred therapy, the therapist provides a non-judgmental and accepting environment. This means that clients can express their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. This unconditional support helps clients feel valued and understood.
- Empathy: The therapist strives to deeply understand the client’s perspective and feelings. By demonstrating genuine empathy, the therapist helps the client feel heard and validated, which fosters a stronger therapeutic relationship.
- Congruence: Congruence refers to the therapist being authentic and transparent in the therapeutic relationship. When therapists are genuine and honest about their feelings, it encourages clients to be open and authentic as well.
Self-Actualization:
Person-centred therapy believes that individuals have an innate drive towards self-actualization, which is the process of realizing and fulfilling one’s potential. The therapist’s role is to facilitate this process, helping clients explore their feelings and experiences.
How it Works:
- Client-Led Sessions: Unlike some therapy styles where the therapist directs the conversation, person-centred therapy allows clients to lead the discussion. This empowers clients to focus on what is most important to them at that moment.
- Safe Space for Exploration: The therapist creates a safe and supportive environment, allowing clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. This exploration can lead to greater self-awareness and understanding.
- Focus on Feelings: The therapy often focuses on feelings and personal experiences rather than diagnostic labels or past traumas. This approach helps clients gain insights into their emotions and how they impact their behavior.
Benefits of Person-Centred Therapy:
- Increased Self-Awareness: Clients often leave sessions with a better understanding of their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
- Empowerment: Clients feel empowered to make their own choices and changes, promoting independence and confidence.
- Improved Relationships: By learning to communicate and express their feelings more effectively, clients may improve their relationships with others.
- Holistic Approach: This therapy addresses the whole person rather than just specific problems, supporting overall well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, person-centred therapy is a compassionate and empowering approach to counseling that prioritizes the client’s perspective and promotes personal growth. It fosters a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship, enabling clients to explore their emotions and achieve greater self-understanding and fulfillment. This approach can be beneficial for anyone seeking to improve their mental well-being or navigate life’s challenges.
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