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Humanistic psychotherapy

  • joebarrattcounsell
  • Aug 21
  • 2 min read

Humanistic psychotherapy is a gentle, supportive approach that puts you at the centre. Instead of focusing only on problems or labels, it looks at you as a whole person — your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and hopes for the future.

At its heart, humanistic therapy is built on the belief that we all have the capacity to grow, heal, and create change when given the right environment. My role isn’t to tell you what to do, but to offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we explore what matters to you and work towards greater self-understanding, connection, and growth.


Why Humanistic Therapy?

Life can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from ourselves. Humanistic therapy provides a space to slow down, reflect, and discover new possibilities. It values authenticity and compassion, helping you to reconnect with your strengths and move towards living in a way that feels more true to who you are.


The Roots of Humanistic Therapy

This approach grew out of a movement in psychology that wanted to focus less on problems and more on human potential. Thinkers like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow were influential, reminding us that with empathy, acceptance, and authenticity, people can flourish. Others, like Viktor Frankl and Rollo May, brought in the idea of meaning, choice, and responsibility, recognising that life’s big questions are part of our growth too.


Approaches Within Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic psychotherapy brings together a few different approaches, each offering something unique. You don’t need to “choose” one — they all blend into the way I work. Here’s what they mean in practice:

  • Person-Centred Therapy – This is the foundation of humanistic work. It’s about the relationship between us: one of empathy, respect, and no judgment. When you feel genuinely accepted, healing and growth can naturally unfold.

  • Gestalt Therapy – Gestalt invites you to focus on what’s happening right now — your thoughts, emotions, and even how your body feels in the moment. By becoming more aware of yourself in the present, you can spot patterns, make new choices, and feel more connected to who you are.

  • Existential Therapy – This approach looks at life’s deeper questions: What gives me meaning? How do I live more authentically? What choices do I have? It’s not about giving answers but supporting you to explore these questions in a way that feels grounding and empowering.

  • Transactional Analysis (TA) – TA helps you understand the patterns of communication and behaviour that often stem from childhood. These “scripts” can shape the way we relate to others as adults. Becoming aware of them gives you the freedom to change unhelpful patterns and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.


Is it for you?


Humanistic psychotherapy is about creating a safe, supportive relationship where you can feel truly heard and accepted. It values authenticity, empathy, and respect, helping you explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace.

Whether you are facing specific challenges or simply want to deepen your understanding of yourself, this approach offers space for reflection, growth, and change. It’s not about being told what to do — it’s about discovering your own way forward, with support and compassion along the journey.

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