On Becoming a Person

A landmark book offering a therapist’s perspective on psychotherapy—a must-read for anyone interested in clinical psychology or personal growth.

Carl Rogers, founder of the humanistic psychology movement, revolutionized psychotherapy and the helping relationship with his concept of "client-centered therapy." His influence has spanned decades, but that influence has become so much a part of mainstream psychology that the ingenious nature of his work has almost been forgotten. New discoveries in the field of psychopharmacology, especially that of the antidepressant Prozac, have spawned a quick-fix drug revolution that has obscured the psychotherapeutic relationship. As the pendulum slowly swings back toward an appreciation of the therapeutic encounter and deeper interpersonal relationships, Dr. Rogers’s "client-centered therapy" becomes particularly timely and important.

In these essential essays, Rogers explores:

The Fully Functioning Person: A therapist’s view of the good life, moving beyond simple adjustment toward a fluid, open process of becoming.

Client-Centered Therapy: The foundational principles of Rogers’s revolutionary approach, shifting the focus from the therapist’s authority to the client’s own capacity for growth.

Empathy and Acceptance: Discover why genuine warmth and a deep, empathic understanding are the cornerstones of every effective helping relationship.

Personal Growth and Self-Actualization: A roadmap for moving away from facades and “oughts” to discover and trust the positive, forward-moving nature at the core of your personality.