[More than just a research tool: A concept for using the Rupture Resolution Ratings System (3RS) in therapist...

Recognizing and adequately dealing with problems in the therapeutic relationship are considered key competencies of psychotherapists. Therefore, a concept for the inclusion of an external observation procedure for the assessment and classification of alliance ruptures in the new German licensing program was tested.In a 7-hour seminar, students were able to learn how to use the Rupture Resolution Rating System (3RS) and central repair strategies for alliance ruptures. A questionnaire regarding possible positive effects of the 3RS and a seminar evaluation form were applied. In addition, video ratings were carried out with the 3RS on the basis of a role-playing exercise in order to record changes in the students' abilities to deal with alliance ruptures.N=35 students took part in the 3RS seminar. The use of the 3RS was considered helpful by students to better recognize problems in the therapeutic alliance (74% agreement) and to be able to deal with them adequately in the future (91% agreement). n=8 students took part in the role-play exercise, of which 3 (37.5%) achieved an improvement in the effectiveness of their repair strategies. The other participants showed no change (n=2, 25%) or a decrease in the effectiveness of repair (n=3, 37.5%).Beyond the research context, applying the 3RS can be useful for teaching central aspects of therapeutic alliance in therapist training. In addition, it offers the potential to demonstrate individual change, although a more standardized basis of assessment is required.