5. Rogerian Therapy

According to Rogers (1977) therapy is a process of freeing a person and removing barriers so that normal growth and development can proceed and the client can become independent and self-directed. During the course of therapy the client moves from inflexible self-perception to changeability. The focus is on immediate conscious experience. In mirroring the client's world, the therapist does not disagree or point out contradictions (Shaffer, 1978). Neither does he/she attempt to look into the unconscious.

Certain conditions are necessary for this process. A "growth promoting climate" requires the therapist to be congruent, have unconditional positive regard for the client as well as show empathic understanding (Rogers, 1961). Congruence on the part of the therapist refers to her/his ability to be completely genuine whatever the self of the moment. While it is necessary during therapy he/she is not expected to be a completely congruent person all the time, as such perfection is impossible (Rogers, 1959). Empathy refers to understanding the client's feelings and personal meanings, as they are experienced and communicating this back to the person.

For all interactions the knowledge of "boundaries" becomes a valuable asset. We believe that the next approach of Theme Centred Interaction is worthwhile looking into.