In this workshop we will discuss and explore congruent functioning, a proposed model of change that is a reframing of Rogers' concept of the fully functioning person. This model is based on empirical research that I carried out at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, Scotland) with data collected using the Strathclyde Inventory, a self-report measure of therapeutic outcome. We will consider if this model of change resonates with our experiences of client work (do we see our clients changing in this way?) and whether our clients describe change of this nature as meaningful for them. We will also reflect on the relevance of congruent functioning for ourselves as persons and as person-centred therapists. This workshop will offer a combination of presentations, discussion in large and smaller groups, and reflective/experiential exercises.

Susan Stephen completed her postgraduate Diploma in Counselling at the University of Strathclyde in 2004, and was trained in person-centred supervision (PCT Britain) in 2008 and person-centred couples counselling (Counselling Works Ltd) in 2009. In 2010 she gained an MSc in Counselling (University of Strathclyde), and a PhD in Counselling (University of Strathclyde) in 2020.

Susan has been working as a supervisor with experienced and trainee counsellors since 2008. This aspect of her professional work raised her interest in becoming involved in counsellor training. She worked as a counsellor educator at the University of Strathclyde (2013 – 2018) and at the University of Edinburgh (2020 – 2021).

research activities
Susan Stephen has developed an active interest in research since commencing her MSc studies in 2008. She volunteered as a researcher and therapist at the Strathclyde Counselling & Psychotherapy Research Clinic from 2008-2013, then she was employed as Coordinator of the clinic from 2013-18. Her research interests include the outcome and process of person-centred therapy, clients’ experiences of therapy and developing case study research methods. Susan has presented at national and international conferences and has published a number of papers based on her work. Recently she completed PhD studies (Stephen, 2020) investigating change during person-centred therapy as measured by the Strathclyde Inventory (Freire, 2007), an outcome instrument designed to capture the characteristics of Rogers’ concept of the fully functioning person (Rogers, 1961). Susan was appointed as Co-Editor of the international peer-reviewed journal Person-Centered & Experiential Psychotherapies in July 2018.