The current paper presents an analysis of the influence of the person-centered theory on counseling and psychotherapy practices. The analysis focuses on the evaluation of the historical significance of the person-centered theory. The differences and the similarities of the person centered theory versus the process-experiential theory is also presented.

Person-centered theory refers to the evaluation of the role of the social, physical and psychological factors on human behavior. According to Hunt (2014) the dimensions of the psychological theory are vital in the determination of the behavior of an individual that is shaped by personal, social and environmental factors. The psychological dimension of the theory requires the analysis of the emotions and cognition of an individual that have significant influence on health and overall well-being (Corcoran, 2011). On the other hand, the biological aspect entails the analysis of the physical and physiological well-being of an individual that is believed to have a major influence on behavior (Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan, 2018). The spiritual aspect refers to the part of human that focuses on the evaluation of life purpose and meaning. The evaluation of the spiritual aspect of an individual entails the analysis of the ethics, nature of relationships, religion and sociality and their influence on behavior and in driving the morality of an individual (Sunirose, 2013). The social dimension of the model focuses on the analysis of the influence of various environmental factors such as family, institutions, relationships and physical structures and their influence on behavior. Carrying out an effective bio-psycho-social spiritual assessment of an individual requires an understanding of the various factors and how they contribute to the individual’s behavior, health problem and overall well-being.

From the assessment of the client, it is evident that there are a number of personal and environmental factors that have influenced his current behaviors and health. The huge workload that Nick has to deal has affected his relationship with his peers and family. He now has limited time to interact and socialize with others as he used to. The changes and damages in his relationships witnessed in the recent past have resulted in the emotional trauma and distress that he is currently facing. Also, his engagement in substance abuse has contributed to his discrimination and the unfair treatment he received from his friends. These personal factors have not only changed the behavior of the client but have also had negative effects on his health and overall well-being.

Environmental factors such as the nature of family, relationships and institutional factors have also influenced the behavior of the client. The weak family ties, and a weak relationship with friends and family members have contributed to the isolation behavior of the clients. Poor communication among the family members is an environmental factor that has affected negatively the well-being of the client. Nick indicated he does not know much about his parents and has a mother who is highly secretive and not affectionate. This has significantly affected his relationship with them and consequently his feeling and behavior towards them.