Case
CASE CONCEPTUALIZATION
- Course
- COUN6722 (COUN6722)
- Institution
- Walden University
PERSON-CENTERED THEORY CASE CONCEPTUALIZATION
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Case ConceptualizationTheory: Person-centered Theory. Case of Jason.
Presenting Problem: Jason, a 38-year-old successful lawyer, pursued counseling due to severe
depression characterized by feelings of loneliness and despair. Even though he is professional,
successful, and respected within the Jewish community, he works excessively long hours to keep
his sanity. Jason's romantic involvement with Kevin, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, is kept secret to avoid disturbing social and professional repercussions.
Recently, Jason discovered Kevin's online infidelity and lack of affection, exacerbating his
depression. Jason feels betrayed; his relationship with Kevin was his source of meaning and
purpose, and its deterioration brought him sadness and nightmares. He fears rejection from his
community and struggles to find a way to resolve their issues, asking his counselor to help
alleviate his pain. From a person-centered perspective, Jason's core problem lies in his lack of
congruence and the resulting inner conflict between his true self and the facades he maintains
due to societal pressures and fears of rejection. (Thorne. B. et al., 1999)
Hypothesis:
a) In Jason’s case, his severe depression and associated symptoms can be understood as a
manifestation of incongruence between his self-concept and his lived experiences. According
to Roger’s theory, “When there is a significant gap between how an individual perceives
themselves and their actual experiences, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and
depression. Since the individual cannot reconcile their self-image with their real-life
experiences, leading to internal conflict and emotional turmoil.” (Gillon. E. 2007)
b) Jason’s true self, which includes his romantic feelings and his identity as a gay man in a
relationship with Kevin, conflicts with the societal and religious expectations imposed on
him by his Jewish community and professional environment. This internal conflict creates a
profound sense of loneliness, isolation, and despair, as Jason cannot authentically express his
true self without risking rejection and condemnation. “The person-centered theory
underscores the importance of creating a therapeutic environment that fosters self-acceptance
and authenticity.” (Capuzzi, D. et al. 2016)
c) His need for unconditional positive regard is unmet, leading to feelings of worthlessness and
a lack of self-acceptance. The betrayal by Kevin has exacerbated this incongruence, further
destabilizing Jason’s already fragile sense of self and plunging him into a more profound
depression. According to the theory of person-centered, “thinking the person’s one
overriding need- other needs are not specified - is for empathic unconditionally positive
regard.” (Thorne. B. et al., 1999)
d) Jason’s intense work schedule serves as a coping mechanism to distract himself from his
emotional pain. Still, it ultimately prevents him from addressing the underlying issues and
finding a path toward self-acceptance and genuine connection. Person-centered theory states,
“coping mechanisms, such as intense work schedule, can serve as distractions from
underlying emotional pain. However, these mechanisms ultimately hinder genuine self-
acceptance and meaningful connections because they prevent individuals from confronting
their core issues.” (Stephen. J. 2015)
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