Person Centered Therapy

Person Centered Therapy services offered in Gig Harbor, WA

Person-Centered-Treatment (PCT) is a widely respected approach in healthcare, and it’s now especially accessible via telehealth. At Andrew’s Compassionate Legacy, board-certified nurse practitioner Dr. Gina Hardage-Athetis, MSc, FNP-CB, Psy-D, PhD provides person centered treatment (PCT) via telehealth across the state of Washington, as well as office based treatment. Whether you’re struggling with substance use disorder (SUD), anxiety, grief, depression, or trauma, contact the office online to book an appointment for telehealth or office based treatment dependent on individual needs assessment. 

Person Centered Therapy Q&A

What is person-centered therapy (PCT)?

PCT is built on a simple but powerful idea: people have an innate capacity for growth, healing, and self-understanding. Rather than acting as an authority who “fixes” problems, the therapist creates a supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly.

This approach is guided by three core principles:

Unconditional positive regard

Dr. Hardage-Athetis offers acceptance without judgment, allowing you to talk about difficult experiences, fears, or mistakes in a safe space.

Empathy

She works to deeply understand your perspective and reflects your thoughts and emotions with care and clarity.

Authenticity (congruence)

With genuineness and transparency, Dr. Hardage-Athetis helps build a real and trusting therapeutic relationship.

Together, these elements create a space where insight, confidence, and personal growth can naturally develop.

How does person-centered theory work with telehealth?

PCT translates well to telehealth because it’s rooted in conversation, reflection, and emotional connection. Secure video or phone sessions allow you to experience that full support from a location that feels comfortable to you.

Telehealth also offers practical benefits, including:

  • Eliminating travel time and transportation barriers
  • Making it easier to maintain consistent appointments
  • Increasing privacy and comfort when discussing personal topics

For many people, a familiar environment creates a more relaxed and open therapy experience.

What are the benefits of person-centered theory?

PCT can help you develop greater self-awareness, emotional clarity, and confidence in your decisions.

Greater self-understanding

Exploring your thoughts and experiences in a supportive environment can help you better understand your emotions, needs, and behavioral patterns, as well as fostering:

Stronger self-esteem

Consistent empathy and acceptance often help reduce self-criticism and build greater self-compassion and confidence.

Healthier relationships

As you gain insight into your feelings and needs, better communication leads to stronger and more authentic relationships.

Reduced stress and emotional overwhelm

Having a safe space to process emotions can help release stress and bring perspective to difficult situations.

How does person-centered theory fit into a tailored mental health plan?

PCT is highly flexible and can serve as the foundation for a personalized treatment approach. Dr. Hardage-Athetis may integrate person-centered principles with other evidence-based methods such as cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness practices, and trauma-informed care.

Because your goals guide your sessions, therapy can focus on what’s most important to you, whether you’re navigating grief, improving relationships, addressing anxiety or depression, or overcoming substance use disorder.

To learn more, schedule an appointment online.