National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a key aspect of client-centered therapy?

1. Standardized treatment approaches

2. Emphasizing therapist authority

3. Focus on client self-discovery and empowerment

4. Utilizing frequent assessments and evaluations

The correct answer is: Focus on client self-discovery and empowerment

Client-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, prioritizes the individual's capacity for personal growth and self-direction. A key aspect of this therapeutic approach is the focus on client self-discovery and empowerment. This means that the therapist creates an environment of acceptance and understanding, allowing clients to explore their feelings and thoughts freely. By fostering this environment, clients are encouraged to tap into their own resources for change and understanding, which can foster a stronger sense of self and autonomy. In contrast, standardized treatment approaches do not consider the unique experiences and preferences of each client, which can hinder personalized growth. Emphasizing therapist authority undermines the foundational principle of client autonomy, as it positions the therapist as the primary agent of change instead of the client. Lastly, while assessments and evaluations play a role in many therapeutic modalities, client-centered therapy emphasizes the therapeutic relationship and client experience over frequent assessments, which can detract from the self-exploratory process that is crucial to this approach.