What is a core principle of person-centered therapy?

The core principle of person-centered therapy emphasizes the importance of the client's responsibility for their own growth and self-discovery. This approach is rooted in the belief that individuals possess the inherent capacity for self-understanding and change, and that the therapist's role is to provide an empathetic and supportive environment where clients can explore their feelings and thoughts without judgment.

By promoting the idea that clients are responsible for their own growth, person-centered therapy empowers individuals to take control of their own healing process. This autonomy encourages clients to identify their own solutions and develop self-awareness, leading to personal development and transformation.

In contrast, other approaches, which may position the therapist as the authority providing solutions or structuring sessions in a rigid manner, do not align with the fundamental tenets of person-centered therapy. This methodology focuses on fostering a therapeutic alliance characterized by trust and acceptance, allowing clients to navigate their paths toward personal growth.