Embracing Nondirectivity

Many of the 'believers' in non-directivity can be found in 'Embracing Non-Directivity' edited by Brian. E. Levitt (2005) (the roll call is an excellent reminder that it is not passe nor academically unsound to be non-directive) and the behavioural/attitudinal distinction runs through many of their articles, explicitly or otherwise. In fact, to drive it home from the outset, the introductory chapter is a revised version of Barbara Temaner Brodley's classic short paper from 1999, 'About the Non-directive Attitude', which articulates the issue simply and skillfully and is a great opener - From hereonin the book is almost an embarrassment of riches. It is a scholarly collection and one that lends formidable weight to the argument that rather than being out-of-date, non-directivity is more relevant now than ever, and as the breadth and intelligence of the articles suggests, we might even be seeing a significant shift or re-balancing of person-centred thought - a kind of back to the future where the contemporary proliferation and dilution of ideas and practices inspires some to seek out once more the essence of the approach - I don't think it's overstating things to identify this as a key text for anyone wanting to understand what Carl Rogers' approach to therapy has become, some 50 years after its inception. Andy Rogers, Ipnosis No 21, 2006. This book is essential reading for counsellors interested in updating their understanding of Carl Rogers' person-centred theory. In a series of essays written by an impressive international collection of person-centred writers, this book explores important facets of non-directivity as it relates to person-centred theory and practice. Their contributions examine the history, theory, applications and implications of the non-directive attitude. Non-directivity emerges in these pages as a way of being that remains vital and highly relevant to the practice of person-centred therapy, other person-centred applications and psychotherapy in general. Rhonda Luttrell, Diploma in Professional Counselling, QMACA, Counselling Australia, Volume 5, Number 4, Summer 2005