Clients' perceptions of the therapeutic relationship and its role in outcome

Abstract

Psychotherapy research indicates that the therapeutic relationship influences counselling outcome, though the mechanism by which relationship contributes to change is unkown. This study investigated clients' preceptions of the therapeutic relationship and its role in their change processes. Twelve clients at college based counselling centres were interviewed using a semi-structured interview format. The qualitative data obtained in this study was coded and analyzed using grounded theory methodology. A grounded theory was generated, identifying two core categories and five related categories. The theory provides a detailed model of change that highlights the complexities of the therapeutic relationship. Similarities between the theory generated from the data and principles of attachment theory are discussed.