The client-centered therapy is based on the client taking enough control to make the necessary alterations of behavior. I think children and people with very shy and passive personalities would not benefit from this form of therapy. This method is more applicable for those who like to take the initiative and are motivated to make a change. Clients with severe psychopathology would lead themselves to a dead end because they do not have the motivation or desire or are incapable to make the changes.
The rational emotive therapy method would be more suitable for children, passive, codependent women and men, and clients with severe behavioral dysfunctions. Individuals with aggressive behavior or defensive nature would most likely not benefit from this method. The therapist disputes irrational thoughts of the client and the aggressive behavior could lead to conflict between the therapist and the client. When the therapist disputes ideas, it is important that the client refrain from regarding the disputes as a personal attacks. In my opinion, defensive natured people tend to take constructive criticism personally. Indeed, authority seeking children and passive, codependent people need to be told that they hold irrational thoughts and that these thoughts needs to be eliminated. Individuals with severe psychopathology may not see themselves as having irrational beliefs. Consequently, being told by the therapist that their thoughts are irrational may lead to further problems. Finally, only the financially comfortable can afford and benefit from this therapy even though some people with little money like the displaced or drug abusers need therapy more than others.
