Differences Between Humanistic And Congruent Counselors California

By Michael Evans


When it comes to therapy, one of the most important aspects in the Rogerian method is that of congruency. As such, Congruent counselors California often use a person centered approach. In this style counseling, client and counselor get to know one another as equal partners. After which, it can often be easier for the two to be open and honest with one another.

Also known as genuineness, congruence refers to therapists and clients whom can relate on a person to person basis. Whether relating to lifestyle, past history or current issues, these professionals believe that in doing so, one can build a stronger relationship with each client. With this being the case, these are often the best counselors to provide therapy with regards to sexual orientation, gender reassignment surgery or other gender focused issues.

The Rogerian method allows counselors and clients to work on a one-on-basis with a client-centered focus. The method is one in which the counselor focuses on present issues while eventually leading clients to self-actualization. As a such, the individual becomes more self-aware while going through the process. After which, the client eventually separates oneself from challenges and obstacles which have been limiting in the past.

The core conditions in this type counseling include demonstrating congruency with regards to client needs, providing clients with unconditional positive approval and being empathetic to needs and understanding. Providing support in ways which are acceptable to both client and counselor throughout the relationship is one of the most important aspects in this type counseling.

By using this person or client centered approach, therapists and clients can often build more honest and trustworthy relationships. One of the main differences between this type counseling and humanistic counseling can be seen in the terminology. For, while most other counseling forms refer to patients, congruent counselors prefer to use the term clients.

Unlike other therapies and treatment, this type also allows the individual to eliminate and overcome challenges and obstacles rather than providing healing. As such, the therapist and client are equal partners with the therapist teaching the individual how to eliminate these issues over time. After which, individuals can often use the tools one learned in therapy to avoid needing therapy for similar issues in the future.

By living in the present moment and addressing current issues, individuals can avoid allowing resentment and other negative energies to build up over time. In addition, by focusing on the present and future rather than dwelling on past issues, it can often be easier to find a resolution. Whereas, when dwelling on past issues, individuals often have to spend a great deal more time in therapy to determine the root cause of a problem, then how that cause might be treated rather than eliminated.

Ultimately, this type of counseling is more like peer-counseling than humanistic counseling. For, individuals going through this type treatment often become friends with therapists during the process. As a result, not only does the individual find the help one needs to become more aware and self-actualized, clients and therapists often become life-long friends. While this is the case with congruent counseling, those working in traditional therapy are not often allowed to build or carry friendships into the future.




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