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Updated: May 21, 2026

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Hyperscanning Study in Psychological Counseling
Published on: January 17, 2025
Interpretations of the patient-therapist relationship in brief dynamic psychotherapy : effects on long-term
S Amlo1, V Engelstad, A Fossum
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 85, Vinderen, 0319 Oslo, Norway.
Abstract:
The authors examined whether persistent analysis of the patient-therapist relationship in brief dynamic psychotherapy favorably affects long-term dynamic change in patients initially deemed suitable for such treatment. As in common practice, 22 highly suitable patients were given a high number of transference interpretations per session. A comparison group of 21 patients with lower suitability received the same treatment, but transference interpretations were withheld. Statistical adjustment for the deliberate nonequivalence in pretreatment suitability indicated a significant negative effect of high numbers of transference interpretations on long-term dynamic changes. Demographic variables, DSM-III diagnoses, additional treatment, life events in the follow-up years, or therapist effects did not explain or obscure the findings.
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