Experts in Their Own Lives: Emphasizing Client-Centeredness in a Homeless Program

In: Policy studies journal: an international journal of public policy, Volume 28, Issue 2, p. 382-401

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of a nonprofit homeless organization in Burlington, VT, that is dedicated to the principles of client-centeredness. Originated by psychologist Carl Rogers as a therapeutic philosophy, this approach has been applied in numerous social service & organizational settings. For this agency, client-centered practice entails the promotion of client empowerment & the responsible use of staff authority. Client participation in homeless programming is identified as one tool that may facilitate both client autonomy & a balance of staff-client power. Clients, staff, & administrators of this agency were interviewed to help explain the philosophy & practice of client-centeredness, as well as pitfalls of the client-centered approach. Hypotheses & future questions for research are also suggested. 22 References. Adapted from the source document.