Integrating Expressive Methods in a Relational-Psychotherapy

Abstract:

Therapeutic Involvement is an integral part of all effective psychotherapy. This article is written to illustrate the concept of Therapeutic Involvement in working within a therapeutic relationship – within the transference -- and with active expressive and experiential methods to resolve traumatic experiences, relational disturbances and life shaping decisions.

Key Words:

relational psychotherapy; expressive methods; integrative psychotherapy; therapeutic involvement

Recent discussions with colleagues have focused on two different perspectives of therapeutic involvement in psychotherapy. One perspective emphasizes the effectiveness of a psychotherapist working only in the “present moment” of the therapy relationship -- of working solely within the transference/countertransference matrix. This first approach is referred to as a “two person therapy” because of the emphasis on the centrality of the therapeutic dialogue between client and psychotherapist in facilitating change in clients’ dysfunctional relational patterns. In this point of view the most important factor in the therapeutic process is the psychotherapist’s sustained empathic presence. Fixated archaic wounds, traumas, script conclusions and relational disruptions are resolved through a fully involved, person-to-person therapeutic relationship.