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Carl Rogers and Active Listening
CrisisLink follows the philosophy of Carl Rogers (1902-1987). One of the most prominent American psychologists of his generation, Rogers believed that every person has an innate ability for self-understanding and personal change. He stated that a person experiencing a problem or even a crisis should be supported and allowed to discover the solution to the situation for him or herself.
This support, in the form of an empathic relationship between the person experiencing a problem and a helper, triggers the discovery of these internal resources. CrisisLink empowers people by listening with empathy and acceptance, without judgment, and without giving advice.
We help people accept themselves, trust their own insights and explore ways to solve the problem at hand. We do this by using what Carl Rogers termed “active listening.”
ACTIVE LISTENING
Active listening is an interactive practice that establishes understanding between two people. When people are listened to empathically, they listen to themselves with more care and are better able to clarify what they are feeling.
Because our conversations take place in a non-judgmental, advice-free atmosphere, active listening does not present a threat. Callers are able to explore situations and make decisions in a safe environment.
Active listening is not a passive skill. It demands empathy, effort, attention, and lots of practice. CrisisLink uses active listening to help people help themselves.