Person-Centered Therapy: A Case Study

My clinical experience with the community mental health population shaped and reinforced my theoretical orientation. Through completing staffings, intake assessments, group and individual therapy, I observed one primary theme that resonated with Person-Centered Therapy (PCT). Specifically, many of these individuals lacked support, as they were often homeless, their family’s were difficult to contact, their case managers were often unavailable, and obtaining and transportation to get to their clinics was challenging. Moreover, individuals often reported a history of abuse and/or trauma, and that they either did not tell anyone about it or did not receive any support after it happened. Consequently, the lack support often manifested as a low condition of worth, which led to them not being fully functional individuals. In addition, the lack of supportive relationships often resulted in clients utilizing maladaptive coping strategies (e.g., drugs, alcohol, etc.) to make up for the lack of support. As a result, the coping strategies are reinforced, as they give the individual a sense of control and momentarily make them feel better.

This general conceptualization illustrates how a lack of support may lead to a low condition
This practice strengthens my ability to conceptualize, develop treatment plans, and be flexible during treatment. For example, when completing intake interviews and when conceptualizing clients, I employ a biopsychosocial approach to determine if biological, psychological, and/or social variables are contributing to a client’s current condition. In addition, I have implemented strategies consistent with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to help clients change their relationship with their thoughts and I have taught clients the ABCs, to assist them to alter their