Nondirectivity as a therapeutic stance, and dimension of therapeutic relating

Abstract

This paper contains an analysis of the concept of nondirectivity, a discussion of some arguments against the possibility of being nondirective, and a concluding argument that nondirectivity/directivity represents a basic dimension of therapeutic relating. First, it is argued that nondirectivity should be seen as an attitude rather than a set of behaviors, and that therapeutic interventions can be either directive or nondirective. Second, three arguments against the possibility of being nondirective are discussed: the impossibility of not influencing clients, the unavoidability of biases, and clients perceiving directivity in the therapist. The suggestion is made that nondirectivity always exists in a context of directive influences, and that optimal nondirectivity requires awareness of these. Finally, it is argued that the stance of nondirectivity is more or less important to various therapists' work, and that nondirectivity/directivity may represent a basic dimension in a potential integrative theory of psychotherapy.