Which therapy is nondirective and centers on the client–therapist relationship?

• A. Existential therapy.
• B. Gestalt therapy.
• C. Adlerian therapy.
• D. Person-centered therapy.

Answer: (D)

The main idea tested is a therapy approach that is nondirective and centers on the client–therapist relationship. In person-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, the client is viewed as the expert on their own experiences, and the therapist acts as a facilitator rather than a director. The nondirective stance means the client guides the discussion—topics, pace, and goals—while the therapist primarily listens, reflects, and mirrors feelings back to the client. The strength of this approach rests on the quality of the relationship: the therapist provides unconditional positive regard, accurate empathy, and genuineness (congruence), creating a safe, nonjudgmental space that fosters self-exploration and growth.

Other approaches emphasize specific techniques or goals rather than placing the relationship at the center. Existential therapy focuses on meaning, freedom, responsibility, and choice; Gestalt therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness and experiments, often with more directive interventions; Adlerian therapy highlights social interest, lifestyle clues, and guiding change through interpretation and guidance. Because the hallmark of nondirectiveness and the relationship-focused process is how change is most effectively facilitated in person-centered therapy, it fits best here.