When it comes to psychiatry, it’s important to understand that the relationship between therapist and patient matters –– significantly. Therapists and patients are part of an ever-evolving relationship and both must put effort in to see the greatest results. Blair Wellness Group in Beverly Hills is here to explain the significance of therapeutic alliance and how it fosters treatment success. Get connected with our licensed clinical psychologists to learn more today. 

Mutuality and Collaboration 

In previous years, there’s been a common misconception that the relationship between a therapy and client is a one-way street. However, this narrative is false, and it can actually harm a patient’s chances of getting the most out of their treatment, as well as prevent the therapist from getting better at their job. It is important to note that in order for therapy to be effective, both the patient and therapist should make a commitment to each other to provide ongoing feedback, collaboration, and goals for where they want the therapy to go. 

Flexibility and Responsiveness 

To create the most effective treatment for a patient and adapt to their needs, therapists should tailor their sessions to the patient’s background, culture, life experiences, emotional tendencies, etc.  This helps strengthen the patient-therapist relationship, and allows the therapist to better determine whether therapy is effective or not. 

Giving Feedback

Feedback in a client-therapist relationship should work both ways. Therapists should give their feedback about how they feel patients are handling situations, what their next steps should be, etc. Additionally, therapists should be receiving feedback from clients and incorporating it into treatment, addressing their blindspots, and working to fix their mistakes in order to create the best and most effective therapy environment for clients. 

Working Through Ruptures 

Ruptures are when an element of the client-therapist alliance breaks. There are many things that can lead to ruptures, such as disagreements on patient goals, mistrust of the therapist, misinterpretation, etc. In order to handle a rupture, both client and therapist must recognize that it is happening. After you’ve recognized it, it’s important to address it calmly to ensure your relationship won’t be harmed and you can move past it. 

When it comes to therapy, our licensed clinical psychologists can help provide you with the tools you need and teach you the skills and techniques to set you up for a lifetime of success, but in order to achieve it, you must realize that the client-therapist relationship is ever-changing and that you must put the work in to maintain it.  Reach out to Blair Wellness Group to learn more about how our clinical licensed psychologists can help you today.