Summary: Theoretic Approach To Group Therapy

This week I am choosing to highlight a Person-Centered Therapy Group as a theoretic approach to counseling. Carl Rogers is said to have applied particular approach to group therapy beginning in the 1960s. His technique, however, of this nondirective counseling, were birthed in the early 1940s, with Rogers who was known as a courageous pioneer in the particular approach. In this approach, Rogers placed emphasis on the therapist’s realness and empathy, the relationship between client and therapist was paramount, as opposed to previous types of therapeutic approaches, that put greater emphasis on giving advice, diagnosis, teaching and interpretations. (Corey, 2016, p. 257) Personally, I see this type of approach in therapy helpful, by creating

Rogers acknowledged due to a lack of structure, the group members could experience irritability and anxiety regarding this. To alleviate these problems, Rogers suggested to those who are facilitating such groups that they could open a session by asking a question that would lead group members such as: “’I wonder how you might like to spend the time in the group today?’’ (Corey, 2016, p. 268) Or perhaps, “‘Welcome. We have set aside (a certain amount of) time today to meet in the group. I’m not sure what we will end up talking or thinking about, but I’m looking forward to seeing how it unfolds.’” (Corey, 2016, p.

I have a deep appreciation for the arts, but the family gift to draw and sculpt, feels to have skipped a generation, yet the desire to create did not. This desire to create, is what I appreciate so much regarding Natalie Roger’s artistic approach to person centered therapy. While Carol Rogers, definitely was hard core about having the group run the direction of the group with Natalie, she gave a bit more direction regarding what the art therapy portion may look like. Natalie felt it was appropriate to give guidelines for community group behavior, such as reminding group members there is no right or wrong way to create art. She would tell them they could choose to create, or be a bystander and experience the expressions vicariously, she would also tell them to take care of themselves – be aware of their bodies and feelings. She would also remind all in the group that her instructions are always suggestions, and the group members were each their own boss. (Corey, 2016, p. 276) I don’t see me running an anger management group anytime soon, but if I did and it was person centered, I could see myself incorporating art for those that may have a difficult time verbalizing their emotions. Picture it, if you will, a punching bag draped in canvas, with a rainbow of pain nearby. Group members would have the opportunity to dip their hands in paint, and either punch, slap, shove, etc. that draped punching bag. Pick a color, pick a