Therapeutic Relationship and Change: The Irvin D. Yalom Approach
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26823/rnufen.v17i1.25536Keywords:
Psychotherapy, Therapeutic relationship, Facilitating attitudesAbstract
Throughout his work, psychiatrist Irvin D. Yalom (1931-...) emphasizes the therapeutic relationship as the main agent of change in psychotherapy, a notion supported by empirical literature. This paper describes Yalom's premises for the therapeutic relationship and synthesizes relevant empirical research data. A narrative review with a comprehensive and qualitative approach to the author's ideas was conducted. Yalom's unique style of psychotherapy combines elements from various theoretical approaches, focusing on the construction and maintenance of the therapeutic relationship in the here-and-now, with a phenomenological view of human life. Empirical evidence highlights the therapeutic alliance as the most robust factor for therapeutic success, regardless of theoretical model. Conflict resolution and collaborative goal setting are associated with positive outcomes. The process should be conducted in a spontaneous and personalized manner with a focus on intersubjectivity and the construction of a quality relationship.
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