Who developed the concept of Person-Centered Therapy?

The concept of Person-Centered Therapy was developed by Carl Rogers, who is recognized as one of the most influential figures in psychology. His approach emphasized the importance of creating a supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel accepted and understood. Rogers believed that individuals possess the inherent capacity for self-growth and healing when provided with the right conditions, such as empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard from the therapist.

Rogers' approach marked a significant departure from the more directive strategies employed by earlier theorists, like Freud, who focused on uncovering unconscious drives, or cognitive-behavioral therapists like Beck and Ellis, who concentrated on changing thought patterns and behaviors. Person-Centered Therapy prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and the client’s subjective experience, fostering self-exploration and personal insight. This emphasis on the individual as an expert in their own life is a cornerstone of Person-Centered Therapy and reflects Rogers' belief in the value of personal agency and human potential.