Question

Do you think it is possible to combine client-centered and existential approaches in therapy? why or why not? Explain what a combined preach might look like. Cite your evidence along with reference

Answer 1

Client centered approach

Client centered approach is nondirective that empowers, motivates, and help the client find fulfillment of the personal potential.

Existential approach

Existential theorists say that humans are free and responsible for their own lives and they help them explore the values, and helps people learn to live authentically or in harmony with their own ideals, priorities, and values.

I think that these two theories could be used together because they are similar, but different enough to help the client thoroughly develop to their full potential. Where these approaches could be combined would be the role of the counselor because their techniques are very similar in their approach to helping the client. I think it would look something along the lines of using the counselor role in the PCT as a person who is there to motivate and encourage natural growth positively, but the therapist also will connect to the client authentically by treating the client as an equal to help the counselor understand the subjective world of the client. The counselor may be more provoking like in the existential approach in order to help the client embrace some of the issues they are having before taking a client centered approach to encourage them to grow to their true potential personally and socially. Counselors in client centered are genuine and accepting, it would be beneficial to start with client centered approach in order to gain the acceptance and trust from the client before taking an existential approach. In existential approach the counselor will challenge the client to reflect on their life and help them become aware of their options available to them in order to help them grow and create a meaningful and purposeful life.