Evidence-based therapy relationships: research conclusions and clinical practices

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychotherapy Research

Background:

• Therapeutic relationships are crucial in psychotherapy.
• Evidence-based practice necessitates understanding effective relationship elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present conclusions and recommendations from an interdivisional task force on evidence-based therapy relationships.
• To synthesize findings from meta-analyses on the effectiveness of various relationship elements and treatment adaptation.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a series of meta-analyses on the effectiveness of different therapeutic relationship elements.
• Convened a panel of experts to review evidence and draw conclusions.

Main Results:

• Demonstrably effective elements include: alliance (individual, youth, family therapy), cohesion (group therapy), empathy, and collecting client feedback.
• Probably effective elements include: goal consensus, collaboration, and positive regard.
• Promising but insufficiently evidenced elements: congruence/genuineness, repairing alliance ruptures, and managing countertransference.

Conclusions:

• Several core components of the therapy relationship are demonstrably effective and should be prioritized.
• Further research is needed for promising elements to solidify their evidence base.
• Recommendations are advanced for practice, training, research, and policy to enhance therapy relationships.