Page 52 - Part A
P. 52
Counselling Skills
Key elements of person-centred theory
According to Rogers, the counsellor must meet the following ‘core conditions’ in
order to help a client’s positive therapeutic development:
• Genuineness or congruence
• Unconditional positive regard
• Empathetic understanding
• Non-possessive warmth.
Explore the core conditions now in more detail.
Genuineness
Genuineness is also called ‘congruence’ by Rogers. It means being deeply ourselves
and being able to relate to others in a sincere and non-defensive manner. It means
being truthful and meaning what we say, rather than pretending to feel things that
we do not. If you are not genuine, you will not be able to demonstrate unconditional
positive regard or empathy.
Complete the activity on the following page to check that you understand the concept
of genuineness.
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