Humanistic Therapy
A broad category of therapies emphasizing personal growth, self-actualization, and the inherent worth of the individual, including person-centered and Gestalt approaches.
What Is Humanistic Therapy?
Humanistic therapy is a broad category of psychotherapy approaches, including person-centered therapy and Gestalt therapy, that emphasize personal growth, self-actualization, free will, and the inherent worth and dignity of the individual, generally prioritizing the therapeutic relationship and present-moment experience over structured techniques.
How It Works
Humanistic approaches share the view that people have an innate drive toward growth and self-understanding, and that a genuine, empathic, accepting therapeutic relationship can support this natural process. This description reflects general humanistic principles using original language.
What Happens During Therapy?
Sessions are typically less structured than more directive therapies, focusing on the client’s own experience and self-exploration, with the therapist providing empathy, genuineness, and a non-judgmental presence.
Evidence and Effectiveness
Research supports humanistic approaches for mild-to-moderate depression, anxiety, and general wellbeing, with evidence generally more established for person-centered therapy specifically than for the broader humanistic category as a whole.
Who May Benefit?
Humanistic therapy may be considered for people seeking a supportive, growth-oriented approach to personal difficulties, particularly for mild-to-moderate distress or general self-exploration.
Limitations and Considerations
The less structured nature of humanistic approaches may be less suited to more severe symptoms or conditions where structured, symptom-targeted interventions have stronger evidence.
Finding a Qualified Therapist
Humanistic therapy is practiced by psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, licensed mental health counselors, and other mental health professionals trained in humanistic approaches.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
Humanistic therapy length varies widely, from brief supportive contact to longer-term therapy.
Therapy vs. Medication
Humanistic therapy is a psychotherapy approach; medication may be appropriate for more severe symptoms in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
What Conditions Is It Used For?
Related Therapy Types
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychological Association. Clinical Practice Guidelines.
- American Psychiatric Association. Practice Guidelines.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Psychotherapies.