What is Person-Centred Therapy?

Person-Centred Therapy, also known as Client-Centred Therapy, is based on the belief that every person has the inner resources to grow, heal, and find their own answers. Developed by Carl Rogers, this approach places the client — not the therapist — at the centre of the process.

At its core, Person-Centred Therapy is built on three essential elements: empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness. These values create a supportive relationship in which you can safely explore your inner world, free from judgment, advice, or pressure.

How Person-Centred Therapy Works

This is a non-directive form of therapy. That means your therapist won’t steer the conversation or offer solutions. Instead, they’ll listen deeply, reflect back your experiences, and help you hear yourself more clearly — allowing you to gain insight and move toward your own growth.

Your pace and process are respected at all times. You decide what’s important to talk about. Over time, this freedom fosters self-trust, emotional awareness, and healing.

In Person-Centred Therapy, the relationship between therapist and client is everything. You’re not seen as someone broken who needs fixing, but as a person with worth, wisdom, and potential — even in pain.

What Person-Centred Therapy Can Help With

This approach is helpful for a wide range of concerns, especially when emotional safety and a strong sense of self are central to the healing process:

• Low self-esteem or self-criticism
• Anxiety, sadness, or emotional numbness
• Feeling stuck or disconnected from yourself
• Past relational trauma or emotional neglect
• Identity issues or inner confusion
• Personal development and self-exploration
• Building emotional resilience and trust

It’s especially suitable for those who value self-understanding, emotional clarity, and a warm, consistent space to process what matters most.

What to Expect in a Session

In a Person-Centred session, you’ll be encouraged to speak freely — about anything. There is no agenda, no right or wrong topic. The therapist will reflect your thoughts and feelings with care, offering a mirror that helps you understand yourself better.

There may be moments of silence, moments of tears, moments of insight. But there is no pressure. The goal is not to be “fixed,” but to feel seen, understood, and more connected to your authentic self.

Person-Centred Therapy at LifeChange, Dublin 2

At LifeChange, our therapists trained in Person-Centred Therapy create warm, affirming spaces where clients are respected, heard, and gently supported in their journey of self-discovery.

Sessions are available in-person in our Dublin 2 offices or online.

Is Person-Centred Therapy Right for Me?

If you long to feel understood without judgment, or if you’ve struggled to express your emotions freely, this approach offers a safe, steady environment where you can reconnect with who you truly are — and move forward with clarity and confidence.