Running head: THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND APPLICATION
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U4 A1 Theoretical Framework and Application: Person-Centered- Therapy
Melisa Metcalfe
COUN5239 Theories of Psychotherapy
8/2/18
Dr. Melina Heher
Running head: THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND APPLICATION
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Unit 4: Theoretical Framework and Application- Person Centered Therapy
The person-centered therapy was brought to light from Carl Rogers. This was originally
called “client- centered therapy” but later changed to person centered therapy. According to
Corey, (2017) The belief in the client’s capacity for self-healing is in contrast with many other
theories that have a view of therapist’s techniques as the most powerful agent that can lead to
change but with person centered therapy, Rogers proposed a theory that uses the client as the
primary agent for constructive self-change. (Corey, 2017, p. 165). This paper will explore the
concepts of person centered therapy and, the evolution, working with diverse population and will
be applied to a fictional client by the name of Rona.
The person who developed this therapy, as stated previously, is Carl Rogers now
deceased but this theory has made a substantial impact in counseling. Many theories focused on
the theory that a person’s upbringing and past can shape and mold a person to who they are today
and are reasons of how this person manages stress and so forth. Carl Rogers came from a strict
religious family that has many rules and even play was discouraged (Corey, 2017). Rogers theory
is that a counselor can help a client realize and work through their problems by help guiding
them to a self-help instead of influences from an outside person using techniques. Carl Rogers
even applied person-centered therapy to world peace by training policy makes, leaders, and
groups in conflict (Corey, 2017, p. 164). This theory helps guide a client by having an almost
companionship with the client to help them realize their own strengths through talking to them
and instead of asking questions the counselor can simply show empathy and help the client
understand what they are going through. This theory also helps the client go through actualizing
tendency, which is a universal human motivation resulting in growth, development and uses
autonomy of the person. (Joseph & Murphy, 2012)
Running head: THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND APPLICATION
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This theory resonates with me personally because this theory does not tell someone what
to do but help them realize their own emotions. Empathy is a big factor for counseling and life in
general because many professionals do not realize how vital this tool is. I have personally
experience with therapy and if a therapist does not show empathy it is very hard to let another
person in. To me helping a client use their own skills and have their own epiphany can greatly
help a client because it can be used in the future for the client without needing therapy. Simply
being given tools or techniques may not help a person but understanding how a simple
conversation and receiving a companionship can help relax a client. Instead of being intimidated
