Finding Yourself Through Humanistic Counselling
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When life feels heavy or confusing, it’s easy to lose sight of who we are and what gives us purpose. Humanistic counselling is a gentle, supportive approach that focuses on you as a whole person not just your struggles. Instead of labelling or “fixing,” it creates space for growth, healing, and rediscovery.
Here are some ways humanistic therapy can help, and what to expect if you’re curious about trying it.
Why the Person-Centred Approach Works
One of the most well-known styles in humanistic counselling is called the person-centred approach. In this kind of therapy, your counsellor isn’t there to tell you what’s “wrong” or how to live your life. Instead, they offer unconditional support, deep listening, and genuine care so you can explore your own insights and choices.
That said, therapy doesn’t look the same for everyone. In some cultures, talking openly about personal struggles may feel uncomfortable or even taboo. Others may prefer guidance from elders, family, or spiritual leaders. A good counsellor will respect those values while making sure you still feel safe and heard.
Rediscovering Meaning in Life
Sometimes, life feels like it’s lost direction. You may be going through the motions but feel disconnected from what truly matters. Humanistic counselling often helps people reconnect with meaning and purpose.
Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist who developed logotherapy, suggested four gentle steps for finding meaning again:
Shift your focus – Instead of dwelling only on problems, look outward toward your relationships, passions, and environment.
Reframe your perspective – See challenges in a new light and notice what lessons or strength they reveal.
Stay open – Let go of outdated beliefs about yourself and allow space for new possibilities.
Set new goals – Create realistic, meaningful goals that fit where you are in life right now.
It’s about taking small, hopeful steps toward feeling grounded and fulfilled again.
Healing Through the Empty-Chair Technique
Another powerful tool in humanistic counselling is the empty-chair technique. Imagine sitting across from an empty chair and speaking to a part of yourself, or even to someone from your life.
For example, if you often struggle with self-doubt, you might imagine talking to your “inner critic.” By giving those thoughts a voice and responding back you can uncover hidden emotions, practice self-compassion, and release old patterns.
It might feel unusual at first, but many people find it incredibly freeing.
The Heart of Humanistic Counselling
At its core, humanistic counselling is about believing in your ability to grow and heal. Your therapist walks alongside you, offering support and encouragement as you explore what truly matters to you.
Whether you’re struggling with self-esteem, searching for direction, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself, humanistic therapy creates space for hope and change.
✨ If you’ve been feeling stuck, humanistic counselling may help you find clarity, meaning, and a stronger connection to yourself.
References
Chiru, M. (2017). Cross-cultural limitations of the person-centred approach. Retrieved from http://www.chirucounselling.ca/blog/cross-cultural-limitations-of-the-person-centred-approach.
Das, A. K. (1998). Frankl and the realm of meaning. The Journal of Humanistic Education and Development, 36(4), 199–211. doi: 10.1002/j.2164-4683. 1998.tb00392.x
Wagner-Moore, L. E. (2004). Gestalt therapy: Past, present, theory, and research. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 41(2), 180-189.
Wagener, A. E. (2017). Metaphor in Professional Counseling. Professional Counselor, 7(2), 144-154.
Wedding, D., & Corsini, R. J. (2018). Current Psychotherapies (11th ed.). [VitalSource Bookshelf]. Retrieved from https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781337670555/
Wressle, E., & Samuelsson, K. (2004). Barriers and bridges to client-centred occupational therapy in Sweden. Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy. 11(1), 12-16. doi: 10.1080/11038120410019135
