By Michael Evans


One of the most important aspects of counseling is that of congruence. For example, there are now Congruent counselors California working in different areas. As a result, each gets to know one another personally throughout the counseling process.

Also known as genuineness, congruence refers to therapists and clients whom can relate on a person to person basis. Whether relating to lifestyle, past history or current issues, these professionals believe that in doing so, one can build a stronger relationship with each client. With this being the case, these are often the best counselors to provide therapy with regards to sexual orientation, gender reassignment surgery or other gender focused issues.

In this type counseling, often referred to as the Rogerian approach, it is often easier for client and counselor to be open and honest with one another. For, since counselors are open and honest with clients, it often leads clients to be more open and honest with counselors. After which, many go on to build friendships which in some cases last a lifetime.

The core conditions in this type counseling include demonstrating congruency with regards to client needs, providing clients with unconditional positive approval and being empathetic to needs and understanding. Providing support in ways which are acceptable to both client and counselor throughout the relationship is one of the most important aspects in this type counseling.

In using this person-centered approach, therapists and clients often build a great deal of trust and understanding. As with other therapies, individuals need respect counselors privacy just as counselors need to respect clients. For, while the terminology may be different when it comes to referring to client's versus patients, confidentiality and privacy still need remain in tact.

Unlike other methods of counseling, this method also allows individuals to eliminate and overcome obstacles rather than having a therapist treat the issue. As such, client and counselors are equal partners when it comes to trouble-shooting issues and determining the best problem-solving options. In some cases, this can be ongoing therapy while in others it could be a recommendation to see a professional such as psychologist or psychiatrists.

In most cases, counselors using this method believe it is better for clients to focus on the present and future rather than past experiences. For, the Rogerian approach works to assist clients in personal growth and eventual self-actualization. As such, those using this method believe it is more beneficial to live in the now rather than the past. Whereas, humanistic and other forms are often based on discovering issues of the past. After which, therapists focus on past issues which were traumatic while providing different forms of treatment.

Ultimately, this type of counseling is more like peer-counseling than humanistic counseling. For, individuals going through this type treatment often become friends with therapists during the process. As a result, not only does the individual find the help one needs to become more aware and self-actualized, clients and therapists often become life-long friends. While this is the case with congruent counseling, those working in traditional therapy are not often allowed to build or carry friendships into the future.




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