A comment on 'Why Rogers is still relevant' Therapy Today, June 2024
by Louise Wilson
Published on 07 June 2024
BACP members may have read the article ‘Why Rogers is still relevant’ in the June 2024 edition of Therapy Today. The article depicts person-centred theory as historic and outdated and posits pluralistic therapy as the natural evolution of the approach. The reductive portrayal of person-centred practice including passive nodding and uncomfortable silences is not consistent with our understanding and experience of the approach which is dynamic, powerful and political. Trust in the actualising tendency and the autonomy of the individual is the foundation of the theory and any direction from the therapist is contrary to person-centred principles and is therefore unrelated to the approach. We do believe that person centred theory is enough. At the same time, the approach demands the opposite of dogmatism from those who practice it. A person-centred therapist has to remain fully and flexibly open to experience in the work. Within a trusting and respectful relationship, we challenge ourselves and our clients to notice and work with whatever might be on the edge of awareness. This can be uncomfortable but not to be shied away from. Far from being covered in cobwebs, person centred practice remains vibrant, dynamic, creative and courageous. We believe the article represents a missed opportunity to explore contemporary person-centred practice, choosing instead to promote a different (and conflicting) theoretical framework.