Psychodynamic Counseling: A Perceptual Analysis

In order to cope with the negative emotions resulting from incongruence, the client relies on the utilization of defense mechanisms. The two mechanisms described in PCT are perceptual distortion and denial.These are defined as the reinterpretation of reality to make it less threatening to one’s ideal-self concept and the refusal to acknowledge an unpleasant situation by disregarding reality, respectively (Rogers, 1942). Based on the information provided, the client has used both defense mechanisms to protect his self-concept. The client uses perceptual distortion to rationalize the failure of his last relationship. The client believes the relationship ended due to “ no one wanting to be around him very long” when, in fact, it was because of …show more content…
Rogers (1961) referred to the counseling relationship as a “shared journey” and both participants are equal. Due to the nature of this approach, the counselor is seen as a non-expert while the client is an expert in his experiences. This relationship dynamic allows the client to express himself in a non-threatening environment and awakens the client's ability to resolve his current challenges without direct intervention. Carl Rogers (1961) postulated six conditions that are “necessary and sufficient” to create a growth-inducing environment. According to this theory, the client and counselor must be in a therapeutic relationship where the client is experiencing incongruence in his life. Next, the counselor must demonstrate congruence, show unconditional positive regard, and utilize empathy to understand the client’s subjective view of the world. Lastly, the client must be able to acknowledge the counselor’s unconditional positive regard and empathic understanding of his challenges for change to occur. Although all of these conditions are important, Roger’s stated the three most important conditions are the ability for the counselor to be congruent, show unconditional positive regard, and demonstrate empathy. These conditions allow the client to be open to experiences; increase positive self-regard, and accept the counselor’s unconditional positive regard, respectively (Corey, …show more content…
For progress to occur, the counselor must create a therapeutic environment based on the core therapeutic conditions. If this atmosphere exists, a client can access and enable his potential for growth. Even though the phases are incremental, Roger’s acknowledged that all clients are unique and approach the process differently. Due to this fact, not all clients enter treatment at the same stage; resolve all challenges before advancing to the next stage; or progress to the final