A core concept of PCA in the spotlight: facilitating encounter

Abstract

In this editorial, we introduce our inspiration for this special issue in facilitating encounter. We explore some of the tensions inherent in the person-centered literature, such as working with or prioritizing individuals or the group. We emphasize the necessity for the authenticity and spontaneity of facilitators and their role as participants as well as facilitators. In the current context of encounter groups, which is different from when they originated, we introduce what the authors in this issue suggest is important about facilitating such endeavors. Moreover, we argue for the necessity of a broader discussion of facilitating encounter seeing encounter as one of the core concepts of PCA.