Devised by Carl Rogers, this is also known as Rogerian or client-centred counselling.  It is based on the view that everyone has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change, given the right conditions. Rather than being seen as the expert and directing the therapy, the counsellor offers unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence to help the client develop and grow in their own way.

Carl Rogers ultimately sees human beings as having an innate tendency to develop towards their full potential. However, this ability can become blocked or distorted by our life experienced-particularly these that affect our sense of value.

The counsellor or psychotherapist in this approach works to understand an individuals experience from their point of view, and will positively value the client as a person in all aspects of their humanity, while aiming to be open and genuine. This is vital to helping an individual feel accepted and better understand their own feelings-essentially helping them to reconnect with their inner values and sense of self worth. This reconnection with their inner resources enables them to find their own way to move forward.