A psychotherapist who is a good listener but refrains from giving advice or saying much else during therapy sessions can be described as an "empathic and non-directive therapist." This approach is often associated with person-centered therapy, also known as client-centered therapy, which was developed by Carl Rogers.
Characteristics of an empathic and non-directive therapist may include:
Empathy: They have a deep capacity for empathy and actively listen to their clients, seeking to understand their emotions, thoughts, and experiences from the client's perspective.
Reflective Listening: They frequently use reflective listening techniques, wherein they paraphrase and restate what the client has said to demonstrate understanding and to encourage further exploration of the client's feelings and thoughts.
Non-Judgmental Attitude: They maintain a non-judgmental and accepting attitude towards the client, creating a safe and supportive environment for open expression.
Client-Centered Focus: The focus of the therapy is on the client's self-discovery and personal growth rather than on the therapist providing solutions or advice.
Avoiding Interpretation or Directives: They refrain from interpreting or analyzing the client's experiences or offering explicit advice or solutions, allowing the client to explore and find their insights and solutions.
Encouraging Autonomy: They promote the client's autonomy and encourage them to take an active role in their therapeutic journey.
Validation: They validate the client's emotions and experiences, acknowledging their feelings and struggles without imposing their own perspectives.
Open-ended Questions: They often use open-ended questions to encourage the client to delve deeper into their feelings and thoughts.
The approach of an empathic and non-directive therapist is based on the belief that clients have the capacity for self-understanding and growth. By providing a supportive and empathic environment, the therapist helps clients gain insights into their own experiences and facilitates their journey toward healing and self-awareness. This style of therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals who prefer a more exploratory and self-directed approach to therapy.