Humanistic therapy is a form of talk therapy that involves a gestalt approach (focusing on the present). This approach to psychology emphasizes the mind and behavior as a whole, and that the whole of anything is greater than its parts. It digs deeply into how a person feels right here and now instead of on past events that led to these feelings.
The humanistic approach provides a warm atmosphere filled with support, empathy, and trust. Many people living with a range of mental health conditions can benefit from humanistic therapy treatment.
At SoCal Empowered, we specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. We have witnessed empirical evidence of the benefits that come from humanistic therapy on our clients. Our professional care team works hard to build relationships so that you can solely focus on recovery without the fear of judgment.
What is Humanistic Therapy?
Humanistic therapy is an unconditional positive approach to psychotherapy that concentrates on understanding human behavior on an individual level. It does not put people in groups with similar characteristics and issues. This is because the ultimate goal is to emphasize the “exploration of self.”
Together, the humanistic psychologist and the client view and observe the client’s behavior, working together as equals. Emphasis is placed on positive behavior traits and the ability to use personal insights. These insights found internally consist of growth, healing, wisdom, and self-fulfillment. The client is looked at as the expert, recognizing what is best for them, and the therapist offers an empathetic environment.
The therapist will set specific goals to motivate positive change in their life. The continuous work in this therapy always focuses on current situations rather than past life experiences.
What Conditions
Does it Treat?
Humanistic therapy is used to treat various mental conditions. Some common disorders include:
- Anxiety/Panic disorders
- Depression
- Personality disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating Disorders
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Moreover, humanistic therapy may be beneficial for people going through family struggles or difficulties with other interpersonal relationships. People with low self-esteem, lack feelings of “wholeness,” or who are searching for their personal meaning can benefit from this treatment.
HOW IT WORKS
Forms of self-actualization can include:
- Trying hard to achieve
- Spiritual enlightenment
- A pursuit of wisdom or selflessness
Humanistic Therapy Techniques
The universal foundations of all therapy are self-exploration, empowerment to the client, and a supportive environment. Several widely practiced techniques used in humanistic therapy incorporate listening, accepting, understanding, and sharing.
Some forms of humanistic therapy that are commonly applied include:
- Gestalt therapy
- Person-centered therapy (also known as client-centered therapy)
- Solution-focused therapy
- Transactional analysis
- Transpersonal psychology
- Existential psychology
- Reality therapy
The two most widely used forms of humanistic therapy are gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy.
Dreamwork is one humanistic therapy technique used in gestalt therapy, by analyzing the meanings of images and feelings. “The empty chair” is another common technique, which involves an imaginary conversation with another person.
In person-centered therapy, the humanistic therapy technique used is “active listening.” The therapist remains non-judgmental and supportive, and also sets clear boundaries to ensure a safe environment. The therapist also remains genuine, accepts negative feelings that arise, and works from the client’s viewpoint.
What to Look for in a Humanistic Therapist
There are qualities a humanistic therapist must possess. A therapist should be non-judgmental, understanding, empathic, and inviting. They must be an experienced, licensed mental health professional with humanistic values. Furthermore, the next most vital quality is that they make the client feel comfortable to get the most out of therapy.
OBTAIN Humanistic Therapy at Socal Empowered
MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA
Not only is concern and respect for others an important theme for humanistic therapy, but at SoCal Empowered, it’s a requirement. We are a family run group equipped with industry-leading mental health recovery professionals. We focus on meeting each client where they are, and work hard to create a respectful relationship.