Microskills: Unconditional Positive Regard

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Listen in as we discuss the basic assumptions and key concepts, such as empathy, non-judgment, and congruence, that form the foundation of unconditional positive regard. We share real-life examples and techniques therapists use to empower clients and foster their personal development, like active listening and reflecting feelings. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the healing potential of unconditional positive regard in therapy!

Unconditional positive regard is a concept developed by Carl Rogers, a prominent figure in humanistic psychology. It refers to an attitude of complete acceptance, support, and non-judgment toward an individual. Unconditional positive regard involves showing respect, empathy, and genuineness, regardless of the person's actions, beliefs, or feelings. It means valuing and accepting the person for who they are without imposing conditions or expectations. This attitude is central to client-centered therapy and can facilitate personal growth, self-acceptance, and positive change.

Here's an example of demonstrating unconditional positive regard in a therapeutic context:

Client: "I'm so disappointed in myself for relapsing. I feel like such a failure."

Therapist (Unconditional Positive Regard): "I want you to know that I'm here to support you, and I appreciate your honesty in sharing this with me. Relapses are a part of the recovery journey, and they don't define your worth or the progress you've made. Let's work together to understand what triggered the relapse and explore strategies to help you move forward."

In this example, the therapist demonstrates unconditional positive regard by expressing acceptance, empathy, and support toward the client. They emphasize that the client's relapse does not diminish their worth or progress. Instead of judging or criticizing the client, the therapist maintains a non-judgmental attitude and focuses on helping the client understand the triggers and develop strategies for moving forward. This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship built on trust, acceptance, and compassion, providing a safe space for clients to explore their challenges and work towards positive change.

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Episode Transcript

Stacy (00:00):
Unconditional positive regard Main premise and process.
Unconditional positive regardUPR is a core concept in
person-centered therapy.
It refers to the therapist'snon-judgmental and accepting
attitude towards the client,regardless of their thoughts,
feelings or behaviors.

(00:20):
This helps create a safe andtrusting environment enabling
the client to explore and grow.
Upr helps the client feelaccepted and understood, which
can lead to greater self-esteemand higher levels of functioning
.
It also encourages clients tobe honest with themselves and
their therapist.
This openness is essential foreffective therapy.

(00:43):
Upr creates a foundation fromwhich the client can confront
their issues and work towardspositive change.
Basic assumptions One Clientsare capable of self-directed
growth.
A therapeutic environmentshould be based on unconditional
positive regard, respect andtrust.

(01:05):
Change is possible through theexploration of thoughts and
feelings in a safe setting.
By creating an atmosphere ofacceptance, clients are able to
explore their issues and movetoward positive change.
Two Acceptance and non-judgmentfoster personal development.
Honesty and self-awareness arevital to personal growth.

(01:28):
By focusing on acceptanceinstead of judgment, the
client's progress can beaccelerated and new perspectives
gained.
Three Therapists must separatethe person from their behaviors,
as it is crucial for them tounderstand that behavior is not
indicative of the worth of anindividual.
This allows therapists to focuson the client's needs and

(01:50):
foster growth and change, ratherthan being clouded by
preconceived judgments.
By separating the person fromtheir behaviors, therapists can
help clients developself-awareness, identify
maladaptive patterns and workcollaboratively to cultivate
healthier coping strategies andmore adaptive behaviors for a

(02:12):
better quality of life.
Key concepts Empathy Thetherapist understands and
validates the client's emotions.
Non-judgment The therapistaccepts the client without
evaluating their worth.
Techniques Active listening Thetherapist listens deeply to the

(02:38):
client's experiences.
Reflecting feelings Thetherapist mirrors the client's
emotions, demonstratingunderstanding terms congruence
The therapist's genuine andauthentic presence in the
therapeutic relationship.
Acceptance The therapist'sunconditional regard for the

(03:02):
client's thoughts, feelings andexperiences.
Here's an example of what atherapist would say to
demonstrate unconditional,positive regard.
I understand that you'refeeling overwhelmed right now
And I want you to know that Iaccept you and your feelings

(03:23):
without judgment.
So let's see if we can explorethese emotions and help you find
a way forward.