Therapy is a tricky thing. It is tricky, expensive, and all types are not suited for all persons, as evident by the many forms of therapy being offered. As for myself, I believe that I would be much better suited to a Rogerian type of therapy rather than a Jungian type. I am of strong belief that in order to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, we must constantly and diligently strive toward an ideal self-a self-actualized state of being. I admit-it appears to some to be an unattainable state, a Utopia for the self. However, without such aspirations, nothing would ever be achieved.
             Rogerian therapy would offer simple yet effective approaches. For example, Rogerian therapy stresses the importance of basic human goodness. Most people accept and even encourage this point of view. After all, who really wants to think of the human race as biologically evil? Most humans also like the idea of being in control of one's own actions and direction in life. Rogers whole-heartedly believed that "only we ourselves can know, and choose, our proper directions in life (Ewen, p. 388)." This type of therapy emphasizes responsibility of the client, an important factor in changing feelings and behavior. Rogerian theory also includes solutions to such "everyday" problems as parenting and education. In essence, Rogers was an optimistic therapist and one I suspect most of his clients enjoyed visiting.
             Rogers also emphasized a need for unconditional positive regard within therapy. He recognized this was a vital part of growing up that many people simply did not experience. Perhaps this was, and continues to be, a contributing factor to persons seeking therapy. Even though a person successfully made it through adolescence and into adulthood, the need for warmth, respect, and acceptance from others has not diminished. It has, in fact, probably increased even more. This denial is only complicated further when ...