A longitudinal analysis of person‐centred therapy with suicidal clients

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThere have been substantial research efforts demonstrating the effectiveness of person‐centred therapy. However, little research has investigated whether person‐centred therapy is effective in facilitating psychological growth amongst clients experiencing suicidal ideation and serious mental health difficulties.AimThis study aimed to determine whether suicidal clients who received person‐centred therapy experienced increased levels of authenticity, well‐being and psychological distress. The predictive validity of authenticity and well‐being upon psychological distress was also tested.MethodThe study utilised quantitative, longitudinal methodology. Data were collected from a clinical sample of clients receiving person‐centred therapy at a counselling research clinic (N = 56) over the course of 20 sessions.ResultsThere were statistically significant improvements in levels of authenticity, well‐being and psychological distress over 20 sessions of therapy; a minimum of 15 sessions were required for significant change to be observed. Authenticity and well‐being were negatively associated with psychological distress, whilst authenticity and well‐being were positively associated with each other. Early authenticity and well‐being predict levels of distress later in therapy. These results provide initial evidence to support Rogers' theory of therapy, which is suitable for clients experiencing both mild and severe distress; the findings refute the view that person‐centred therapy is only suitable for the “worried well.”ImplicationsThere is now preliminary justification for person‐centred therapy being suitable for suicidal clients. Person‐centred therapists could consider offering suicidal clients at least 15 sessions to achieve meaningful change; ethical considerations pertaining to this are explored.