TCgP, Year 2007, Number 45-1, Page 19-32
In this article we start off with a short description of the concept of responsibility from an existential perspective, and explain why for some clients it is difficult to take that responsibility. Next we offer a short description of a case history. Thirdly, we examine how this responsibility-avoiding behavior becomes visible in a specific session of the case at hand. Following this, we look at different methods that could be used to stimulate the client to take responsibility. And finally we let the client herself speak: what did she experience as the most helpful factor in this session?
Keywords client-centered psychotherapy, existential responsibility, freedom
Carl Rogers' responses in the 17th session with Miss Mun: comments from a process-experiential and psychoanalytic perspective
Authors: Gundrum, Monica1; Lietaer, Germain1; Hees-Matthijssen, Christiane van2
Source: British Journal of Guidance and Counselling, Volume 27, Number 4, November 1999, pp. 461-482(22)
Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group
Abstract:
Miss Mun was one of the first of Carl Rogers' therapeutic sessions to be filmed. The transcript of the entire session is reproduced, followed by an empirical and clinical-qualitative analysis by two client-centred therapists. Five task-oriented processes are scrutinised in detail: (1) the evocative impact of reflections of feeling; (2) empathic affirmation at a marker of intense vulnerability; (3) focusing reflections; (4) working with the â-˜inner criticâ-™; and (5) exploring unfinished business. The session transcript was also submitted to a psychoanalyst for evaluation: this added another point-of-view from which to clarify and inquire about certain aspects of Rogers' working method. Finally, the client-centred therapists comment on three questions: (1) an all too continual reflection? (2) too much participation and too little observation? and (3) is Rogers too good a mother figure?
Document Type: Research articleAffiliations: 1: Division of Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, Counselling Centre, Catholic University of Leuven, Blijde Inkomststraat 13, 3000, Leuven, Belgium 2: Psychotherapeutic Centre for Students, Catholic University of Leuven, Naamsestraat 22, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
