In the person-centred approach, you’re in a relationship with a counsellor in which you can freely express yourself without being judged. This can help you deal with negative feelings and experiences that may have caused problems. It can also help you develop new ways of living your life and relating to others. Person-centred counsellors believe in your potential to make changes that will help you lead a more fulfilling life.

Person-centred therapy works by creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where the client feels accepted and understood. The therapist does not direct the session or tell the client what to do. Instead, the client leads the conversation and decides what to talk about.

The therapist focuses on building a strong, trusting relationship by showing empathy (deep understanding of the client’s feelings), genuineness (being open and honest), and unconditional positive regard (accepting the client without judgment). These three core conditions help the client feel valued and respected.

As the client talks openly about their thoughts and feelings, they begin to develop greater self-awareness. They may start to recognize patterns in their emotions or behavior and understand how past experiences affect how they feel in the present. Because the therapist does not judge or criticize, the client feels safe to explore difficult or confusing emotions.

Over time, this increased understanding helps the client accept themselves, build confidence, and trust their own ability to make decisions. The therapy supports personal growth by helping the client move closer to their “real self” and live in a way that feels more authentic and fulfilling.

Person-centred therapy works on the belief that people naturally want to grow and improve, and that with the right emotional support, they can find their own solutions and make positive changes in their lives.