In this episode of The Art of Therapy, we explore what it truly means to understand the client’s frame of reference. We talk about active listening, suspending your own perspective, and why it matters that the client feels understood—not just heard.

🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.

Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:

https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

What really happens when we communicate—and why does it so often go wrong?

In this episode, Dr Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen unpack the 8-step communication model to reveal the hidden complexity behind every therapeutic interaction. From misaligned tone and timing to decoding errors and behavioral feedback, they explore why communication so often goes off track—and how to make it more effective in therapy.

Whether you're working with individuals or couples, this episode will help you:

• Understand the 8-step model of communication

• Recognize where communication typically breaks down

• Teach clients how to better understand and express themselves

• Strengthen your own therapeutic presence and clarity

🎧 Subscribe now and master the art of communication in therapy.

Learn more about CPD-accredited, in-person training at Treatment Works:

https://treatmentworks.co.za/training/

In this episode of The Art of Therapy, we explore how to practise person-centred therapy—not just understand it theoretically. We share practical tools, subtle mindset shifts, and the importance of presence, authenticity, and deep listening in the therapy room. Keywords: person-centred therapy, clinical practice, psychotherapy tools, therapeutic presence, client-centred care.

In Episode 5 of The Art of Therapy, We explore how to recognise the right moment to offer more directive input in therapy. Whether it's new information, feedback, or a missing skill, these moments can serve as powerful catalysts—when used with intention and care.

This episode unpacks the subtle skill of offering directive input while remaining grounded in a person-centered, asocial therapeutic frame. It’s about knowing when to step in—and when to step back again.

In Episode 4 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and colleague clinical psychologist Marizaan Koen explore the clinical nuance between non-directive and directive approaches within the asocial therapeutic relationship. How do therapists know when to simply hold space—and when to guide more actively? This conversation unpacks the timing, impact, and therapeutic intention behind each approach, highlighting how both can serve the client’s growth when used thoughtfully. Whether you’re in early practice or refining your clinical voice, this episode offers essential clarity for shaping your therapeutic presence.

What defines the therapist’s role in a truly effective therapeutic relationship? In Episode 3 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen dive into the concept of the “asocial” therapeutic role—where the focus is entirely on the client’s needs and growth. They explore how staying non-directive, even while being impacted by the client, allows for a space of true transformation. This is a nuanced, essential conversation for any therapist committed to staying client-centred in practice.

In Episode 2 of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warwick Phipps and Marizaan Koen zoom out to explore the deeper meaning of the person-centred approach. Rooted in the work of Carl Rogers, this conversation unpacks the three core conditions for therapeutic growth—congruence, empathy, and unconditional positive regard—and why they remain central to all meaningful helping relationships. Whether you’re early in your journey or a seasoned professional, this episode sheds light on how to reconnect with the human heart of therapy.

In this inaugural episode of The Art of Therapy, Dr. Warrick Phipps and clinical psychologist Marizaan Koen explore one of the most fundamental—and often overlooked—aspects of effective therapy: the therapeutic relationship. What makes therapy truly work? How does trust, empathy, and congruence shape meaningful change? Drawing from Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach and decades of clinical experience, this episode offers valuable insight into the foundation of successful therapeutic practice. Whether you're a seasoned psychologist or just beginning your journey, this conversation is a must-listen for deepening your clinical work.