Abstract

PIETA, Maria Adélia Minghelli  and  GOMES, William Barbosa. Impact of the therapeutic relationship in the treatment effectiveness: what do meta-analyses say?. Contextos Clínic [online]. 2017, vol.10, n.1, pp. 130-143. ISSN 1983-3482.

This article analyses meta-analyses on the therapeutic alliance, focusing on its importance to the success of the treatment. First, it characterizes the concept of alliance, defined as expressive mutuality of feelings and attitudes between therapist and patient, to differentiate it from transference (repetition of previous communication patterns) and real relationship (assertiveness and authenticity in the relationship), and discusses alliance measures. Second, it reviews meta-analyses in alliances and outcomes, highlighting the elements that predict good quality of therapeutic relationship. The meta-analyses point to a new level in research and psychotherapeutic practice, focused on the nature of the demand, the patient profile, and the effectiveness of treatment, and are little interested in the differences between the traditional approaches. It is emphasized that psychological services should be offered on high ethical standards and supported by evidence.

Keywords : aliance; psychotherapy; outcomes.

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