In person-centered therapy, what is the counselor's role?

• A. Provide expert advice
• B. Create atmosphere of empathy, acceptance, warmth, and unconditional positive regard
• C. Use directive techniques
• D. Focus on behavioral change

Answer: (B)

At the heart of person-centered therapy is creating a growth-promoting climate in which clients feel understood and valued. The counselor's role is to provide empathy, unconditional positive regard, warmth, and genuineness, so clients can explore themselves freely and access their own resources for change. Rather than giving advice or directing the client, the therapist uses reflective listening and accurate empathy to mirror the client's experience and stays congruent in their own responses. This non-directive stance contrasts with approaches that rely on expert guidance, directive techniques, or a focus on behavioral change, which do not align with the client-centered emphasis on client self-direction and inner growth.