Is this normal for humanistic person centred therapy?

Discussion

My therapist practices what she calls a holistic approach rooted in humanistic/person centred therapy. Every session we have starts with me talking about whatever the topic may be, she asks some questions and then usually moves on to telling me about everything I am doing wrong. One session, it could be too much of a negative view of myself, next session my communication skills are an issue, then I place too much focus on outcomes rather than feelings, then it’s something else I am apparently doing wrong or should be trying to do differently. Not only do I feel attacked and criticised in every session, I also find that we spend the entirety of 45 ministers that each session lasts basically arguing about the difference in our opinions with her constantly trying to beat me with her experience, so to speak, and trying to convince me why she is right and I am wrong. Then I ask her how what we are doing together is meant to help me get closer to what I’d like to achieve and ultimately reach my goals, her reply is either that I focus too much on achievement of results by doing something or that I first need to be aware of what I am doing wrong and then I can apparently understand what needs to change. Essentially awareness = solution. My question is: is it normal to argue with your therapist essentially trying to convince you why she is right and you are wrong while she is playing playing as she says the devil’s advocate in every session? I am ok with the occasional devil’s advocate game but not interested in listening to yet another reason why she is on everyone’s side but mine in every session if I am honest.

Posted Feb 25, 2026, 5:35 AM UTC

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