What is person-centred psychotherapy and what will sessions be like?

When people first come to therapy, one of the most common questions they ask is: “What is it actually like?” If you’ve been considering person-centred therapy, it may help to know a little about what the approach is, and what to expect when you step into the therapy room.

A Different Kind of Conversation

Person-centred therapy, developed by psychologist Carl Rogers, is built on a simple but powerful idea: each of us has the capacity to grow, heal, and make sense of our own lives—given the right conditions. Therapy isn’t about being told what to do, or having someone “fix” you. Instead, it’s about being in a safe, accepting relationship where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly, without judgement.

The Core Conditions

Rogers believed that three core conditions help people move forward:

• Empathy – being truly heard and understood.

• Unconditional positive regard – being accepted for who you are, without judgement.

• Congruence – the therapist being genuine and real with you.

In practice, this means you’ll experience a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, respectful, and authentic.

What to Expect in a Session

Sessions are usually conversational, but they don’t follow a strict agenda. You might come in with something specific you want to talk about, such as a difficult relationship, feelings of anxiety, or a sense of being stuck, or you might not know where to start at all. Both are completely OK.

The pace and direction of therapy are led by you. My role as a therapist is to walk alongside you, listen deeply, seek to understand and reflect back what I hear, support you to explore at your own pace, so that you can find your own clarity. Over time, people often notice that they feel more connected to themselves, more able to trust their own judgement, and more confident in facing life’s challenges.

A Gentle, Collaborative Process

Person-centred therapy doesn’t rely on techniques or “homework.” Instead, it’s about creating a space where you can be yourself, perhaps in ways you haven’t felt able to elsewhere. Many clients describe the experience as relieving, freeing, or even surprising, as they uncover parts of themselves that had been hidden.

Is It for You?

If you value the idea of being truly listened to and understood, person-centred therapy may be a good fit. You don’t need to prepare or perform; you just need to bring yourself. The process unfolds from there.