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What is Person-Centred counselling?

Person-centred counselling is a humanistic approach to therapy that emphasises empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard to support healing and personal growth. It’s grounded in the belief that every person has an innate capacity for self-understanding and positive change, given the right supportive conditions.

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Core Principles of Person-Centred Counselling

Developed by Carl Rogers in the 1940s, this approach is based on the idea that we all have within us the potential for self-actualisation — becoming our most genuine, fulfilled selves.


Rather than focusing on diagnosis or direction, person-centred counselling offers three essential therapeutic conditions that help this growth unfold naturally:

  • Unconditional Positive Regard – You are accepted and valued just as you are, without judgment or condition.

  • Congruence (Genuineness) – As your counsellor, I am real and transparent with you, fostering a sense of trust and genuine human connection.

  • Empathic Understanding – I seeks to deeply understand your world from your perspective, reflecting your experiences with sensitivity and care.

These conditions work together to create a relationship that nurtures healing and growth from within.

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How It Works

In person-centred counselling, you are at the heart of the process.

  • Client-led sessions: You set the pace and decide what feels most important to explore.

  • Non-directive approach: I do not offer advice but help you uncover your own insights and inner resources.

  • Respect for autonomy: You’re supported to make your own choices and find your own direction — recognising that you are the expert on your own life.

Through this collaborative process, you’re empowered to reconnect with your own sense of clarity, strength, and authenticity.

 

The Therapeutic Relationship

The relationship between counsellor and client is the foundation of the work. Built on trust, empathy, and emotional safety, it offers a space where you can express yourself freely and honestly. Within this environment, self-awareness deepens, emotional resilience grows, and change becomes possible.

 

Benefits of Person-Centred Counselling

This approach can support a wide range of experiences, including anxiety, depression, grief, identity struggles, relationship issues, and life transitions.
Over time, many people find that counselling helps them:

  • Develop greater self-acceptance and compassion.

  • Strengthen confidence and emotional well-being.

  • Gain clarity in decision-making and life direction.

  • Feel more authentic, connected, and at peace within themselves.

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What You Can Expect from Counselling

Counselling offers a safe, confidential space where you can explore whatever feels important to you — without fear of judgment. My role is to walk alongside you, offering understanding, respect, and support as you make sense of your experiences and move toward greater well-being.

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Warmth & Non-Judgment

You’ll be welcomed exactly as you are. All parts of you — your thoughts, emotions, and experiences — are received with compassion and without criticism or agenda. This is your space to be fully heard and accepted.

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Empathic Understanding

I’ll listen carefully and sensitively, aiming to truly understand your world from your perspective. Together, we’ll explore what you’re feeling and experiencing, at your own pace, in a way that feels safe and validating.

 

Genuine Presence

You can expect me to be real with you — not hiding behind a professional mask, but showing up as a genuine, caring human being. An authentic connection helps to build trust and allows for honest exploration and growth.

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Respect for Your Autonomy

This is your process. You’ll never be pushed, directed, or told what to do. Instead, I’ll support you to explore, decide, and grow in your own way — empowering you to find your own insights and choices.

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Confidentiality & Safety

Everything you share is treated with care and held in confidence. I follow strict ethical and professional guidelines to ensure your privacy and safety. The limits to confidentiality — such as if there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else — will always be explained clearly.

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Professionalism & Care

As a qualified counsellor, I work within the ethical framework of my professional body. I’m committed to providing a consistent, reliable, and compassionate service that honours your trust and supports your personal journey.

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A Gentle Invitation

If this approach resonates with you, I’d be glad to walk alongside you as you explore your own story. Counselling can be a space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself — at your own pace, and in your own way. You don’t have to face things alone; together, we can create a space where growth, healing, and understanding can unfold naturally.

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