Humanism
Originated by Kurt Goldstein and developed into “humanism” by Abraham Maslow, this approach believes that people have a natural inclination toward healthy development, leading to full expression of themselves, or ‘optimization.’ In the same way that a plant will flourish when optimal environmental conditions are met, people too have the natural ability for growth and development. Maslow’s ‘Hierarchy of Human Needs’ recognizes that humans have needs for Love, Belonging, and Self-actualization that are frequently unsatisfied. Recognizing ways in which your growth may not have been nurtured, allows you to take control as an adult and begin identifying and providing the missing conditions. The result can be healing, growth, and often a dramatic shift in how you experience life.