The art of listening is to understand. It is an important skill to possess in any given circumstance. A person who feels heard feels like their opinion or concern is valued. It establishes a basic connection from one human to another. One of the major reasons active listening has become so popular is due to Carl Rogers and his therapeutic technique known as Rogerian Therapy.
Rogerian Therapy
Rogerian Therapy, also known as Person-Centered Therapy, is a type of therapeutic technique founded by Carl Rogers. He is known as one of the founders of humanistic psychology. It moved away from the traditional way of therapy and focused on a more empathic approach towards the client, which would help empower and motivate them. He believed that every individual has the capacity for personal growth and change. The condition of the client would improve if the therapist is warm, genuine, and understanding. The therapeutic technique has an emphasis on focusing on the “here and now” as opposed to the past. The most important factor for this therapy to work is the therapeutic relationship that is established between the therapist and client.
Techniques of Rogerian Therapy
Some famous techniques –
- Client-Directed Sessions – As opposed to the traditional form of therapy, Rogerian therapy allows the client to choose what they want to talk about and also set the pace they would like to address their issues at.
- Focusing on the Client as a Person – Instead of being so focused on their problems, Rogerian therapy also focuses on the positive traits of the client.
- The Client is the Expert Instead of the Therapist – Rogerian therapy places an emphasis on the client being the expert on themselves and not the therapist. This approach allows a client to fully analyze their problems, mindset, and more with the help of the therapist only to guide them.
- Active Listening – To be able to truly listen to another person, one must put themselves in a position to understand the situation of the other. Active listening requires the other person to feel heard and understood in a non-judgmental way. By repeating their statements, asking relevant questions, and understanding their position, the therapist can help unlock an emotional burden the client may be facing.
Final Remarks
Carl Rogers has influenced my very own interactions with other people in ways I cannot begin to explain. Listening has become such an effective tool not only to understand others but to also communicate your exact needs in the best way possible. What I love about Rogers and his take on active listening is how easily the skill can be integrated into our daily interactions. I find it beautiful to think that you can play such an important role in the life of someone else just because they felt heard by you. His approach is just an emphasis on how we can be more empathetic towards each other and be better humans.