Genuineness (Congruence)
Genuineness (Congruence)
Genuineness means the therapist meets the client as their true self, without wearing a mask or playing a role.
Details
Genuineness (congruence) is one of the core therapeutic conditions proposed by Carl Rogers. It means the therapist's inner experience and outward expression are aligned.
When the therapist participates in the relationship as their real self, the client can also take off their own mask. The feeling of 'a real person — not a fake — is truly meeting me' is itself healing.
Genuineness is about meeting each other as human to human.
— Mindy
💡 Real-Life Example
'The therapist is not hiding behind a professional role, but is honestly and humanly present in the relationship.'
Related Terms
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.