The therapeutic concept
What is counselling, actually? What do people go to a counsellor for, and how will I be helped here?
Person-Centered Therapy
I work according to the humanistic principle of person-centered psychotherapy. This form of therapy is based on the assumption that every person has the potential for personal development and self-actualization, provided they are in a supportive and accepting environment. Compared to cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy focuses more on the client’s self-awareness and emotional development.
The goal is to support the growth and self-actualization of the clients by creating a space where they can better understand and accept themselves. Through a better understanding of the difficulties experienced (and their causes), emotional distress is reduced, self-acceptance and authenticity are increased, and thus, life quality improves.
Change is a typical result of Person-Centered Therapy.
My practice is suitable for mentally healthy adults aged 18 and older, i.e. those not clinically depressed or diagnosed with personality disorders, schizophrenia etc., who are seeking professional support for their emotional health and better mental life quality.
Why would I go to a counsellor?
Counselling Helps With…
… temporary emotional burdens that are difficult to process alone, such as significant (un)planned life changes like the birth of a child, the loss of a loved one, menopause/mid-life crisis, moving, or changes in job; relationship problems in private and professional life, stress up to burnout, etc.
… a general feeling of blockage and dissatisfaction: relationships, hobbies, work – is the journey heading where you want it to, or are you getting in your own way and not knowing why?
Perhaps you repeatedly notice burdensome behavior and thought patterns that block you and reduce your quality of life, such as deeply held beliefs like:
- “I’m not good enough.”
- “Only if I achieve or give something will I be loved.”
- “I must not be angry/sad/annoyed.”
- “I mustn’t make mistakes.”
- “I must handle everything on my own.”
- “I can’t be a burden to others.”
- “Asking for help is a sign of weakness.”
- “I must always be perfect/rational/strong/brave.”
- “Men don’t cry.”
We deal with these and other inner conflicts in counselling, to understand the causes and to bring about a positive shift in direction.
The Therapy Enables You to…
… gain time and energy for a positive life, hence, increasing your life quality by:
improving relationships with others;
empowering boundary-setting („saying no“ without guilt, or with understanding, respect, and compassion towards that guilt);
relieving emotional pressure through the experience of being heard and accepted;
promoting self-awareness and a self-determined life (authentic inner needs vs learned/socialized needs, feelings, and reactions);
fostering resilience and problem-solving abilities;
enhancing self-esteem.
What is „Person-Centered Therapy“?
Person-Centered Therapy is a branch of humanistic psychotherapy. It was developed by the American psychologist Carl Rogers (1902 – 1987) and focuses on the client at the center of the process, with the therapist acting mainly as a supportive, empathetic and authentic individual.
This type of therapy is based on the assumption that every person has the potential for personal development and self-actualization, provided they are in a supportive and accepting environment. Therefore, therapy is mainly conducted through conversation and empathy. The therapist offers a non-directive, respectful and accepting attitude.
Clients are encouraged to reflect on themselves and recognize what is helpful for them. They are strengthened as the experts of their own lives, through understanding and support, in their personal development and solution-finding.
The 3 core principles of person-centered psychotherapy:
Congruence: Therapists remain authentic and honest in their conversation on an equal level. They do not take on the role of a superior expert but show their own feelings and reactions, which helps to create a trusting relationship.
Acceptance: Therapists accept clients without prejudice or judgment. It’s about respecting and understanding the clients as self-determined individuals with their unique life experiences.
Empathy: Therapists strive to put themselves in the client’s shoes, see the world through their eyes and understand their feelings and perspectives. This promotes trust, understanding, and openness in conversation.