A combination of social and economic factors have led to the current surge of interest in brief psychotherapy. But how do the time limitations affect the central relationship between therapist and client? How do therapist and client determine the focus of their work together? How does the therapist deal with ruptures in the working alliance and the pressure of termination issues?

A half-century of psychotherapy research has shown that the quality of the therapeutic alliance is the most robust predictor of treatment success. This unique book provides a systematic framework for negotiating ruptures and strains in the therapeutic alliance and transforming them into therapeutic breakthroughs. Cutting-edge developments in psychoanalysis and other modalities are synthesized with original research and clinical wisdom gleaned from years of work in the field. The result is a practical and highly sophisticated guide that spells out clear principles of intervention while at the same time inspiring therapists toward greater creativity.

The Therapeutic Relationship in Psychotherapy Practice: An Integrative Perspective explores the key components of the patient–therapist relationship in psychotherapy, as well as how these elements affect the treatment process and outcomes and what therapists may do to enhance the relationship. Dr. Gelso posits a tripartite model in which the therapeutic relationship is seen as being composed of three interlocking elements: a real or personal relationship, a working alliance, and a transference–countertransference configuration that exist in each and every therapeutic relationship. Focusing on what psychotherapists can do to foster strong and facilitative relationships with their patients, the book includes substantial material drawn from clinical practice, with an ever-present eye on research findings.

In the past decade, the working alliance has emerged as possibly the most important conceptualization of the common elements in diverse therapy modalities. Created to define the relationship between a client in therapy or counseling and the client's therapist, it is a way of looking at and examining the vagaries and expectations and commitments previously implicit in the therapeutic relationship, explaining the cooperative aspects of the alliance between the two parties.

Although the therapeutic relationship is a major contributor to therapeutic outcomes, the cognitive behavioral psychotherapies have not explored this aspect in any detail. This book addresses this shortfall and explores the therapeutic relationship from a range of different perspectives within cognitive behavioral and emotion focused therapy traditions. The Therapeutic Relationship in the Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapies covers new research on basic models of the process of the therapeutic relationship, and explores key issues related to developing emotional sensitivity, empathic understanding, mindfulness, compassion and validation within the therapeutic relationship. The contributors draw on their extensive experience in different schools of cognitive behavioral therapy to address their understanding and use of the therapeutic relationship. Subjects covered include: · the process and changing nature of the therapeutic relationship over time · recognizing and resolving ruptures in the therapeutic alliance · the role of evolved social needs and compassion in the therapeutic relationship · the therapeutic relationship with difficult to engage clients · self and self-reflection in the therapeutic relationship. This book will be of great interest to all psychotherapists who want to deepen their understanding of the therapeutic relationship, especially those who wish to follow cognitive behavioral approaches.

What is a therapeutic alliance? How do I create a bond? What might lead to the alliance breaking down? What do I do when the relationship feels stuck? These are just some of the questions addressed in this important new book for trainee and qualified therapists wanting to understand, engage in and make the most of the therapeutic relationship. Taking you through each stage of the therapeutic process, from initial boundary setting to effective endings, the book considers a number of different settings and client groups such as working in an online environment and with children and young people. Structured around ‘Frequently Asked Questions’, an accessible and engaging narrative guides you though the skills and considerations for an effective therapeutic relationship, as well as the potential challenges it might face. Bringing to the forefront the mutuality of the relationship and the client as a proactive agent, this book will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to develop trusting and productive relationships with your clients.

One point on which the various helping professions agree is that the crucial factor in the success of therapy is the therapeutic alliance - the collaborative relationship a therapist forms with a patient. This work examines the prevailing ideas about the therapeutic alliance.