Environmental Challenges and Opportunities of Client-Centred Practice

Abstract

Environmental considerations are important aspects of client-centred practice. The cultural, economic, legal, physical, political and social environments must all be considered individually and as entitles that interact with each other and with the client. This article presents a brief discussion of client-centred practice, reviews the literature related to each of the six environments and discusses the impact of each environment on a client with AIDS. It is clear from the discussion of the case that all environments must be considered if the focus is to be truly client centred. There is frequently overlap between the environments and the focus shifts to meet the evolving needs of the client. The environment is not static and the skills of the therapist are required to ensure that the appropriate focus is maintained at all times.