Client-Centered Therapy: Its Current Practice, Implications, and Theory Paperback – January 19, 2021

by Carl Rogers

Presenting the non-directive and related points of view in counselling and therapy, this book defines the progress recently made in the development of the techniques and basic philosophy of counselling.

Genres: Psychology

1596 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2023

Reviews

[Isiah O’Merreighn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently, I purchased the anniversary editions of these two seminal works. As I read through these grand psychological theories, I used annotations, highlighting, etc., and I challenge everyone to do the same with all nonfiction books.

Carl Rogers grew up Protestant. Though he thought he had outgrown his Christian presuppositions, he could not outrun them, which isn’t surprising; after all, we live in God's world.

The foundation upon which Rogers' ideals were laid is evident once you consider the first rule: everyone is of intrinsic worth. Within the materialistic worldview, science, consciousness, morality, and human worth are unfounded, irrelevant, and impossible. Rogers knew this well, as his debates with BF Skinner demonstrate. Additionally, it makes the entire therapeutic and psychological endeavor useless. Carl, in large part, took the Christian worldview and applied it to the social sciences. Believing human beings are inherently valuable, agents of choice, with the consuming desire to live life free of self-contradiction, have love, meaning, and purpose. In accordance with theological truths, we must first recognize our sin to see our need for a savior. Rogers believed we must first identify what we are, in order to understand where we need to improve.

In my opinion, this is the definitive theory of therapy. Every psychologist, counselor, teacher, and layperson should read and apply it to their lives. I have used the client-centered approach as a chaplain, minister, counselor, husband, and friend. The key to unlocking this approach is listening, understanding, and walking with the person towards the best approach.

[Jack Himes · Rating 5 out of 5]

a fantastic and exhaustive explanation of Rogerian theory and technique. There is quite a lot of depth to this theory, far beyond unconditional positive regard and active listening. Or rather, these two concepts are incredibly deep within themselves, and the theory goes beyond these practices.

[Joseph Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book that all clinicians should read. Foundational text