ABSTRACT
Martin really did not know what to expect from the next counselling session with Mandy. He always sought to not anticipate, believing that it was important to be open to what clients brought with them. He did not plan anything himself, this being a hallmark of the person-centred approach. His intention was to listen to his clients and convey his empathy for what they were communicating as accurately as he could, offer them warm acceptance for the person that they are and to be authentically himself. He wanted to be open and spontaneous so that the dialogue between his client and himself flowed naturally. He did not wish to direct his client towards any particular focus. He had noted already with Mandy how themes emerged, how feelings surfaced without his having to in any way force the process.
