On Becoming a Person

Carl Rogers (1961), Constable & Robinson

This is often one of the first books that people come across, when they discover Carl Rogers and the person-centred approach. It is a great mix of his unique style of writing in a very human way, whilst also introducing the theory and person-centred philosophy. Highly recommended, especially if you are looking for an entry point.

Person-Centred Counselling in Action

Dave Mearns & Brian Thorne (2013), 4th Ed., Sage

This was the core reading for our person-centred diploma course. It is extremely well written and informative, as well as highly accessible and with real depth. It covers all the core tenants of the approach; in theory, practice and philosophy from two very experienced practitioners who walk the walk. A great resource if you are training or practicing.

Client-Centred Therapy

Carl Rogers (1951), Constable and Company

This book still captures the humanness of Carl Rogers writing style, but is a little more focused on the theory, compared to ‘On Becoming a Person’ above. It covers the central tenants of person-centred theory and practice, including the infamous ‘A Theory of Personality and Behavior’ aka the 19 Propositions!

Practicing Client-Centered Therapy: Selected Writings of Barbara Temaner Brodley

Kathryn Moon et al. (2011), PCCS Books

The term hidden gem, is certainly over used, but I genuinely think that this is one of the most under-the-radar books in person-centred counselling. It’s usually my go to in recommendations for students and practitioners. It is SO well written and each writing focuses on a topic or question that most people wonder at what time or another, particularly in relation to person-centred practice, e.g. ‘can I ask a client questions?’ If nothing else, just have a look online at the contents and you’ll see what I mean!

Learning and Being in Person-Centred Counselling

Tony Merry (2002), PCCS Books

This was another go-to book, both as a tutor, but also for students. As well as having the main tenants of person-centred theory mapped out in an informative and accessible way, it also provides some helpful reflective exercises and questions that we would often use with students. It has also recently been updated by Sheila, building on the original text from Tony Merry.

Working at Relational Depth in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Dave Mearns & Mick Cooper (2018), 2nd Ed., Sage

I genuinely adore this book, especially in relation to the case studies that are used looking at Dave’s work with Dominic and Rick. Not only do they offer a great insight into the depth and uniqueness of person-centred practice with each client, I also think that Dave’s reflections on his own work are a great illustration of how we can all reflect on, and learn, from our practice.

Dictionary of Person-Centred Psychology

Keith Tudor & Tony Merry (2002), Whurr Publishers Ltd.

Probably not a book that you are going to read cover to cover, but a really helpful reference book to have on hand. Whether it’s to help with writing essays, developing your understanding or just wanting substantial definitions, then this is probably one to have on your shelf.

The Handbook of Person-Centred Therapy and Mental Health: Theory, Research and Practice

Stephen Joseph (ed.) (2018), 2nd Ed., PCCS Books

As well as being a great book in its own right, this was a must-have when exploring the idea of the medical model and mental health in general, especially in relation to the person-centred approach.

The Handbook of Person-Centred Psychotherapy and Counselling

Mick Cooper et al. (2007), Palgrave Macmillan

The good thing about this book is that it is written by a diverse range of practitioners, offering varying perspectives on person-centred theory and practice. It is divided into four parts, examining the theoretical, philosophical and historical foundations of the person-centred approach, the fundamental principles of person-centred practice, as well as new developments in, and applications of, person-centred clinical work. A good additional text to have if you have any money left from all the previous titles on this list!!

Person-Centred Therapy: 100 Key Points

Paul Wilkins (2015), 2nd Ed., Routledge

A really nice short, concise and extremely accessible book that captures the main elements of person-centred theory in a very easy to digest and approachable way. One you can just pick up for a few minutes to read a chapter, or use as a reference to clarify your understanding and learning.

An Introduction to Counselling

John McLeod (2019), 6th Ed., Open University Press

A phenomenally in-depth look at the development of counselling, what it is, its varying approaches and even how it can contribute to creating a better world! Certainly a more general book on the topic of counselling than most in this list, but it is still an extremely valuable and in-depth exploration of counselling as a whole, and probably some elements you may not have even thought about in relation to it.

The Person-Centred Approach: A Passionate Presence

Peggy Natiello (2001), PCCS Books

I remember having this book during my training (and being a bit of a fan boy when meeting Peggy during this time too!) It offers a very human and personal look into many areas of person-centred practice and reflections, which gives lots to learn from and consider. One of the things that still stays with me now is how to think about our pricing as therapist’s, from a person-centred perspective.