What comes to your mind when you hear the word counselling? You probably picture yourself sitting across from a therapist who listens to you patiently, while also helping you navigate the issues at hand. But did you know that counselling has two distinct approaches, directive and non-directive? A directive style of counselling is where the counsellor takes a more active, guiding role in the process, often leading the conversation, In the non-directive approach the client leads the conversation with the counsellor offering support and reflection. Let’s understand both these approaches in depth so that you can identify which one fits your needs
Understanding directive counseling
The directive style of counselling was founded by E.G. Williamson. It is a style of therapy where the therapist or counsellor takes an active role in the counselling process. In this approach, the counsellor is in charge of the process. They decide how the sessions will go and also make key decisions regarding the general pace and direction of the whole process. That is why it is sometimes also called prescriptive counselling.
In this approach, the counselor typically leads the conversation, asks the client specific questions, and may even make a few suggestions based on the client’s issues. In this process, clients usually focus on implementing the suggestions given by the counsellor
Directive counseling is helpful in situations where clients need a clear course of action and are unable to make decisions on their own. Thus, this approach can be particularly useful in educational and vocational settings. This approach can be extremely structured and less time-consuming as well. However, this approach has the potential to make the client dependent on the counsellor, as the counsellor is seen as more of an authority figure than a collaborator.
Understanding non-directive counseling
Carl Rogers discovered the non-directive approach to counselling. It is also known as person-centred counselling. This approach assumes that every human being is rational and realistic, and that they can reach their full potential if provided with a supportive environment.
In this approach, the client sets the agenda for the process, while the therapist acts as a follower. The role of the therapist in this approach is to play a supportive role and provide the client with a safe and empathetic environment to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The client also takes an active role in setting goals for the process. The overall goal of the process is to build self-awareness within the client through insight and reflection.
Non-directive counseling emphasises the power and potential of humans and can be helpful in situations where clients are looking to make long-term changes and personality growth. In a sense, this approach focuses on empowering the clients and making them more independent through self-awareness, insight and realisation, while the therapist acts as a support.
What is the difference between directive and non-directive counselling?
The table given below illustrates the differences between the two styles of counselling
| Aspect | Directive Counseling | Non-Directive Counseling |
| Counsellor’s Role | The counsellor acts as an authority figure and takes an active role in counselling | The counsellor acts as a supportive figure and lets the client take the lead |
| Goal Setting | Counsellor and client collaborate on specific goals | Goals are set based on self-discovery and the needs of the client |
| Client’s Role | Receives guidance and direction | The client engages in self-exploration and discovery |
| Problem-Solving | counsellor provides advice and strategies | The client explores solutions through reflection |
Conclusion:
While both directive and non-directive approaches are aimed at helping clients, there are significant differences between them. While the directive approach is more useful in educational settings, the non-directive approach can facilitate long-term changes. Most modern therapists use a combination of directive and non-directive counseling, based on the needs of the client
References:
- Directive and Non Directive Counselling – Child guidance and counselling. (n.d.). Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/hsp11/chapter/directive-and-non-directive-counselling/
- Explain directive and non-directive counselling. (n.d.). Abstract Classes. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://abstractclasses.in/question/explain-directive-and-non-directive-counselling/
- Perks and Effectiveness of Non-Directive Therapy | ICSW. (n.d.). ICSW. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from https://www.icsw.edu/icsw_blog/what-is-non-directive-counseling
