Which concept refers to the therapist's acceptance of the client without judgment?

The concept that refers to the therapist's acceptance of the client without judgment is unconditional positive regard. This term was popularized by Carl Rogers, a prominent figure in humanistic psychology, and is fundamental to his client-centered therapy approach.

Unconditional positive regard implies that a therapist provides a supportive atmosphere where the client feels accepted regardless of their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. This acceptance creates a safe space for the client to explore their emotions and experiences without fear of rejection or negative evaluation. By fostering this environment, therapists help clients feel valued, promoting self-exploration and personal growth.

In contrast, genuineness pertains to the therapist's authenticity in the therapeutic relationship, while accurate empathic understanding involves the therapist's ability to perceive and communicate an accurate understanding of the client's experiences and feelings. Congruence refers to the alignment between a therapist's internal experience and their external behavior, which, while important, is not specifically about acceptance without judgment. Thus, unconditional positive regard distinctly captures the essence of non-judgmental acceptance in therapy.