Helpful factors and outcomes in person-centered therapy with clients who experience psychotic processes: therapists' perspectives

Abstract

This qualitative study explores person-centered practitioners' perceptions of what is helpful in their work with clients who experience psychotic processes and the impact that they believe this practice has on their clients. In-depth interviews with 20 British person-centered practitioners focused on how they worked with clients who experienced psychotic process, what they perceived as helpful, and how they believed these practices helped their clients. Analyses used a grounded theory approach. In addition to standard person-centered therapy, practices with this client group often incorporated Pre-Therapy and other elements acquired through advanced training. Emerging themes in perceived useful practice included “getting beyond labels and illness” and “working with particular care and attention.” Results suggest the importance of specific therapeutic conditions, especially unconditional positive regard. The perceived therapeutic change most often described was increased social adjustment. Some clients were also perceived by therapists as showing lessened risk of harm to self or others and improvement in self-awareness, mood, resilience and other areas.