refers simply to the givens of human nature. As our knowledge of what human beings are develops, it is clear that we have a pattern of quite complex needs over and above the basic ones for food, warmth and shelter.  We need, for example, some involvement with other people, a sense of meaning and purpose, some status, friendship and privacy. Equally, we have a series of natural resources for meeting those needs, such as imagination, intelligence and social ability.

When our needs are met in reasonable balance, we thrive. When needs are compromised or when the resources for meeting them are damaged or undeveloped, we may suffer various kinds of psychological and physical distress. Understanding and working with the full pattern of individual need in therapy, counselling (and indeed in many other fields) makes for effective intervention that doesn’t get stuck.