Therapeutic Alliance | Therapeutic Use of Self 2

Running Head: Therapeutic Use of Self 2
THERAPEUTIC USE OF SELF 2

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Therapeutic Use of Self 2
A therapeutic alliance can be described as a relationship between a therapist and patient for
gaining desired outcomes of psychological therapy. In 1965, Greenson described this
concept. This alliance helps clients to develop feelings of safety during the treatment process
reducing stress levels. The therapeutic alliance consists of three elements that include the
development of personal bonds. This bond can be created through the help of reciprocal
positive feelings. Other essential elements are agreement regarding the goal of treatment and
tasks. Coming to agreement of both parties regarding goals and probable tasks to achieve the
goals helps to gain desired objectives of the treatment process. Proper therapeutic alliance can
be achieved if both therapists and patients share their beliefs regarding the goals of the
treatment process. Moreover, it is necessary for both parties to come to an agreement about
the methods that will be applied to achieve the treatment goals. Regular communication is
necessary for building a strong relationship of trust and loyalty. The therapist needs to use
different communication skills for building the alliance properly. Building this alliance can
help to eliminate any sorts of barriers like lack of trust and will impact on the outcome of
treatment.

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Therapeutic Use of Self 2
Communication skills help therapists to develop good relationships with customers. Both
verbal and non-verbal communication skills are required for developing therapeutic alliances.
Effective verbal communication skills allow a therapist to have a positive conversation with
patients. At first, it is important to greet customers by addressing their name. It is a positive
attitude that can make patients comfortable to share their issues. After getting information
from the patients about their problems, therapists need to inform them about potential
solutions. It is the time when communication skills help a therapist to convey their message
to the patients. After that, therapists usually ask patients about their understanding and write
it down. At that time if they ask, "What did I say?", it can seem rude. rather, they can say, "
can you please explain what you have understood?". This approach sounds more positive for
patients. Their body posture must be gentle and positive while getting information from the
patients. It can make patients comfortable and open to share their feelings, problems, and
understandings. Listening carefully to patients is another skill that helps to develop
therapeutic alliances. It can help therapists to understand the problem and determine the
correct solutions to identified problems.