Nondirective counseling involves active listening by the therapist.
Self-acceptance is the key concept of nondirective counseling. Also known as client-centered therapy and developed by Carl Rogers, this therapeutic method uses multiple, in-session techniques to assist clients. Though not commonly in use today, this counseling option ideally enabled patients to understand their behaviors while accepting their individuality.
Listening
Listening by the therapist proves essential in nondirective counseling. Rather than being an active participant in therapy, the therapist's main job is to listen to the patient. After allowing the patient to guide the direction of therapy, the therapist restates what the client has disclosed, thus creating a situation where the patient reflects upon past behaviors and choices.
Accepting
Unconditional positive regard -- a vital aspect of nondirective therapy -- enables patients to feel safe, secure and accepted regardless of the things they have done. The counselor does not judge patients by past mistakes. With unconditional positive regard, patients ideally can try new things and make mistakes without fear of rejection, allowing them the opportunity to self-actualize, or achieve their potential.
Respecting and Understanding
Respecting the patient is essential in this psychotherapy. The counselor not only respects the privacy of the patient, but also the patient's integrity, personal beliefs and morals. Showing respect and understanding allows the patient to feel accepted by and trust the counselor. The counselor must also respect the the experiences and choices of the patient, even if they're not in agreement. Due to the individualized nature of nondirective therapy, the counselor must be open-minded and willing to work outside of the box when necessary.
Responding
The way in which the counselor responds to the patient plays a direct role in the healing process. The counselor, using feedback and restating the ideas of the patient, forces the patient to acknowledge ineffective or inappropriate behaviors and thought patterns. If the counselor responds to the patient in a nonsupportive way, therapy will most likely be unsuccessful. The therapist's role is to continuously direct the attention and topics back onto the patient rather than responding to irrelevant questioning.
