Conducting psychotherapy with psychotherapists II: clinical practices and collegial advice

This study examined psychotherapists' experiences in conducting treatment with fellow mental health professionals. 349 psychologists (35% response) rated the extent to which their therapeutic approach with psychotherapists differed from their approach with laypersons of comparable intelligence, socioeconomic status, and diagnosis. Respondents also provided recommendations for conducting effective treatment with this elite clientele. Psychologists indicated that their practices with fellow psychotherapists were in most respects similar to those used with laypersons; 55 of the 78 items were rated of equivalent frequency. Practitioners' self-characterization as "a therapists' therapist" was related to the manner in which they treated mental health professionals. Broadly speaking, two types of advice were offered: to cultivate a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship and to maintain proper boundaries. Recommendations for clinical work and future research on psychotherapists' psychotherapy are advanced.