INTEGRATING PERSON-CENTERED COUNSELLING (PCC) APPROACHES IN COUNSELLING: A FRAMEWORK FOR ENHANCING INTERPERSONAL HARMONY IN SCHOOL AND FAMILY SETTING

Abstract

Conflict, whether in school or family settings, often arises from unmet emotional needs,

miscommunication, or incompatible expectations, posing significant threats to interpersonal harmony and overall psychological well-being. This paper explores the integration of the person-centered counselling (PCC) approach, originally developed by Carl Rogers, as a humanistic framework for resolving relational conflicts. Rooted in the principles of empathy,

unconditional positive regard, and genuineness, PCC emphasizes a non-directive, client- centered process that fosters emotional insight, mutual respect, and self-awareness. Drawing from contemporary counselling literature and practical conflict scenarios within Nigerian school and family environments, the paper presents a model that aligns PCC techniques with conflict resolution strategies to promote effective communication and relational healing. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative approach to analyze the relevance and adaptability of person-centered interventions across educational and domestic contexts. Key

findings suggest that integrating PCC into school guidance programs and family counselling systems can significantly reduce behavioral tensions, improve teacher-student and parent-child relationships, and create emotionally safe spaces for dialogue. The paper concludes by recommending the training of school counsellors, teachers, and family mediators in PCC techniques as a sustainable path toward emotional harmony and conflict prevention in contemporary African communities.