Neurosciences and Person-centered Psychotherapy in Patients With Dementia: A Systematic Review of Non- Pharmacological Interventions

This article investigates the therapeutic value of Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) in individuals diagnosed with dementia, with a focus on both patient outcomes and caregiver experiences. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, including twenty-one studies published between 2020 and 2025. Thematic analysis was performed across four core research questions addressing: (1) cognitive, emotional, and behavioral improvement; (2) the caregiver–patient relationship; (3) comparative effectiveness of PCT against other psychotherapeutic or non-pharmacological interventions; and (4) neurobiological evidence supporting PCT.Findings suggest that most studies emphasized mild to moderate dementia and highlighted the role of emotional safety, authenticity, and unconditional acceptance over rigid psychotherapeutic techniques. PCT was consistently associated with improvements in emotional stability, quality of life, and reduced caregiver burden. Additionally, several studies reported neurobiological mechanisms such as enhanced neuroplasticity, regulation of the HPA axis, and increased oxytocin secretion.Overall, PCT emerges as a humane, accessible, and scientifically substantiated intervention, offering both clinical and ethical advantages. It is proposed as a complementary or alternative approach to pharmacological treatment, reinforcing the need for holistic, person-centered dementia care.