Developing Person-Centred Counselling

by Dave Mearns

`I found myself fascinated, riveted by the accessibility of the prose and format, and, most importantly, splendidly re-engaged with the person-centred approach... The book will prove most useful to practitioners and students of the person-centred approach to counselling, but those from other orientations might also be agreeably surprised by its depth and by Mearns′, dare I say, analytical approach to his subject. I found his style of writing intelligent and clearly set out and, whilst thoroughly academic, it included lots of good clinical evidence and cameos... there is nothing vague or highly idealised, but rather a set of clear thinking, rigorous chapters that make it a most worthwhile addition to the current counselling literature′ -

Genres: Counselling, Psychology

176 pages, Hardcover

First published November 11, 1994

Reviews

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never come across a book of less than 200 pages with such a sheer density of useful information in it before. Each chapter of 2-5 pages elucidates an aspect of person-centred counselling ranging from foundational concepts to more advanced techniques utilised by experienced therapists. It's so well put together, there is absolutely zero waste here.

The writer's ability to succinctly explain such a wide variety of topics related to the person-centred approach makes it a valuable resource for students of counselling, and the way each chapter is so clearly labelled makes flicking through it to refresh yourself on any particular point an absolute breeze. Way more than I expected from a cheap used book published in 1994.

[Reuben Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok so I never actually sat down and read it cover to cover but at this point I’ve dipped in to bits often enough that I think I can call it read. Not much to say other than it is a pretty essential companion to any person centred counselling course, and has saved my ass with a reference many times. Strikes a great balance between accessible and academic, with a real human lens of how theory *actually* plays out in the room, and the authors manage to teach plenty of new information without overwhelming the student, wrapped up in a humble, warm, confidence-boosting package which validates that we do actually already know out shit.

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant book for those who are interested in studying counselling. Every chapter is packed with insights, recommendations, scientific evidence, real-life examples and practical and interesting ideas. Chapters are concise, easy to read and all end with a key point that summarises the main idea of that chapter. A must read for anyone who wants to learn and/or practice person-centered therapy.

[Abdul-Samay Ahadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great supplementary book for counseling and therapy students along with PCT practitioners. The book shares therapeutic nuances that are only attained through practice. The writer was able to expound on each issue without overloading the reader with information and maintaining brevity.

However, this book is not for beginners, it should be read after an introductory PCT course or after reading a primer in the field.