What is a key principle of Humanistic Therapy?

A key principle of Humanistic Therapy is self-actualization, which refers to the process of realizing and fulfilling one's potential and capabilities. Humanistic therapy, rooted in the ideas of theorists like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, emphasizes personal growth and self-awareness as essential components in achieving an individual's unique potential.

In this therapeutic approach, the therapist supports clients in exploring their feelings, desires, and aspirations, fostering an environment of empathy and acceptance. The ultimate goal is for individuals to come to terms with their identity, recognize their inherent worth, and pursue their passions and goals, leading them towards self-actualization.

This focus on the individual's subjective experience and the belief in human beings' inherent ability to grow and change set humanistic therapy apart from other therapeutic modalities, which may prioritize unconscious processes, behavioral modifications, or defense mechanisms. The emphasis on self-actualization underscores the belief that individuals can achieve fulfillment by understanding themselves more deeply and aligning their actions with their true selves.