Abc Unit 3 Counselling Theory Assignment

ABC Diploma in the Theory and Practice of Counselling (Therapeutic Work) Level 4


                            June 2008











Unit 3:   Counselling Theory




Word Count:   3298
UNIT 3:   Counselling Theory Assignment

Critically evaluate the practical use of the person-centred approach and its limitations as suggested by its critics.   How does the person-centred approach differ from other models of therapy, for example psychodynamic and CBT, and also in what ways, if any, is it similar?   Please do not refer to more than two other models.

In this assignment I outline the historical development and basic philosophy of person-centred counselling.   Evaluate its key concepts, principles and practice and critically appraise its validity, relevance and effectiveness.   In relation to person-centred counselling, I illustrate various aspects of the concept of self and the development of self-concept.   I compare cognitive-behavioural and psychodynamic counselling to person-centred counselling.   Finally, I explore the dangers of working without adequate training.

Rogers was part of the Human Potential Movement.   He became dissatisfied whilst working as a psychologist with Rochester SPCC, using methods derived from Freud’s diagnosis and interpretation, coming to believe we are our own expert.   Person-centred counselling then evolved in stages; non-directive phase (1940’s to 1950’s), client-centred phase (1950’s to early 1960’s) and person-centred phase (1960’s to present day).

Person-centred counselling has been influenced by the work of many including: Rank, Adler, Taft, Robinson, Allen, Fiedler, Gendlin, Goldstein, Lewin, Maslow, Raskin, Combs, Snygg, Shlien and Barrett-Lennard.

Person-centred counselling believes each individual is essentially good, and at some level understands where their problems lie.   Possessing an internal, constructive, motivational force, to strive to become the ‘best-we-can-be’.   This is promoted by my use of, and my clients’ experiencing...