His basic hypothesis is that in a safe therapeutic environment individuals will naturally grow and develop, finding their own answers and solutions. Rogers believed this therapeutic environment would be characterised by empathy, acceptance and respect and congruence, the core conditions of a therapeutic relationship. The counsellor's skill therefore is in establishing these core conditions and in maintaining them within the counselling relationship. These same principles are fundamental to the philosophy of the training course. Mutuality is promoted between staff and trainees so that there is a shared responsibility for the learning process.
Staff provide information on key concepts and students identify their own learning goals.
As in the counselling relationship, for this process to occur, there needs to be an environment of empathy, respect and congruence. The aim of the course is to provide an environment in which counsellors can develop a high level of competence, professionalism and ethical understanding. Counselling skills and development both within the training modules and via supervised counselling practice. Counselling experience with clients. Supervision, both within the teaching structure of the course in Years 2 and 3 and ongoing in monthly supervision group.