National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) Practice Exam

Which therapy approach encourages clients to recognize their own feelings and thoughts without judgment?

1. Cognitive behavioral therapy

2. Solution-focused therapy

3. Client-centered therapy

4. Psychodynamic therapy

The correct answer is: Client-centered therapy

The approach that encourages clients to recognize their own feelings and thoughts without judgment is client-centered therapy. This therapeutic model, developed by Carl Rogers, emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe to explore their emotions and experiences openly. In client-centered therapy, the therapist adopts a non-directive and empathetic stance, allowing clients to lead the conversation and come to their own conclusions about their feelings and thoughts. This non-judgmental attitude fosters self-discovery and self-acceptance, which are crucial in helping clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences. This contrasts with other therapeutic approaches, where the focus might be more on behavioral change (as seen in cognitive behavioral therapy), goal attainment (seen in solution-focused therapy), or exploration of unconscious processes and past experiences (as in psychodynamic therapy). While these methods can be effective in their own contexts, they do not prioritize the same level of unconditional acceptance and self-exploration as client-centered therapy does. Thus, client-centered therapy is uniquely designed to facilitate a non-judgmental recognition of personal feelings and thoughts.