The philosophy of Shape is based on solid psychological theory derived from research on various counselling approaches.It leans heavily on the work of Carl Rogers, largely considered the founder of Person-Centred Counselling.
After much consideration, Shape evolved its own theory, based around our unique combination of 7 Key Principles (7KPs):
- Empathy
- Compassion
- Acceptance
- Non-Judgment
- Open & Honest
- Genuine & Real
- Noticefulness
These are not things that we 'do' but more represent 'ways of being', which was central to the work of Carl Rogers.
These are not numbered as there is no sequence or hierarchy to the 7KPs. In any one interaction, you may feel one or more are more appropriate in to bring to mind and in any combination and any weighting.
Later, in around 2020, Shape went on to develop and formalise its 4 Step Process (4SP).
1. Listen
2. Follow the Feeling
3. Reflect
4. Empower
The 'Reflect' part of the 4SP is by reflecting with the 7KPs central to your thinking.
If the whole 4SP is considered to be 100%, then the listening portion should account for 80%. In other words, listening is about the most powerful thing you can do, especially to yourself. Contrary to most interactions, we think we're listening but we're really thinking of what to say or waiting for a chance to tell our own story which is bigger and better.
Humans are wired to connect to each other. Current society forces individualism, separation and loneliness which causes a disconnect and leads to disorder and disease. A key aspect of working with the 4SP and the 7KPs is reconnection. This can vary from reconnecting with yourself and your values, or with your community and society.