The therapeutic relationship is widely regarded as one of the most important factors in psychotherapy. But how important is it really, and what evidence supports this assumption?

A strong therapeutic relationship allows for a safe and supportive space for the client to open up and share their concerns. The relationship is between therapist and client is one built on trust, respect, empathy and collaboration. When the client is in a place where they feel they can trust their therapist, they are more likely to share their innermost thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. In so doing, the collaboration will ultimately lead the client towards positive life changes.

Research has consistently shown that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is strongly related to positive therapeutic outcomes. A positive relationship can improve a client’s sense of well-being, connection and belonging. It can also increase their motivation to change and improve their ability to cope with stress and adversity.

Evidence Supporting the Importance of the Therapeutic Relationship

There is a large body of research that supports the importance of the therapeutic relationship in psychotherapy. Here are a few examples:

  1. A meta-analysis conducted by Martin, Garske, and Davis (2000) found that the quality of the therapeutic relationship was the strongest predictor of psychotherapy outcome, accounting for approximately 30% of the variance in treatment outcome.
  2. Another meta-analysis by Horvath and Symonds (1991) found that the quality of the therapeutic relationship was consistently related to positive treatment outcomes across a wide range of psychotherapeutic approaches and client populations.
  3. A study by Norcross and Lambert (2011) found that the therapeutic relationship was the most frequently cited factor in successful psychotherapy, according to a survey of expert psychotherapists.
  4. In a study by Safran and Muran (2000), the quality of the therapeutic relationship was found to be positively related to the client’s ability to self-reflect and engage in the therapeutic process, as well as to reductions in symptoms of depression.
  5. A study by Ackerman and Hilsenroth (2003) found that the quality of the therapeutic relationship was more important than the therapist’s level of training or theoretical orientation in predicting positive psychotherapy outcomes.

Conclusion

Overall, these studies demonstrate that the therapeutic relationship is a critical component of successful psychotherapy, and highlight the importance of building and maintaining a positive and supportive relationship between therapist and client.