THE THERAPEUTIC ALLIANCE IN PSYCHODYNAMIC, COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL, AND EXPERIENTIAL THERAPIES

This article is based on a panel discussion of the therapeutic allianc e, as viewed from different theoretical orientations. The purpose was not to debate and reach consensus on what is the ''true'' definition o f the alliance. Instead, it was to explore some of the similarities an d differences of the alliance as it is seen from the cognitive-behavio ral, psychodynamic, and experimental perspectives. The following issue s were considered: What is the distinction between the therapeutic all iance, transference, and the ''real'' relationship? Is the role and fu nction of the alliance stable or variable over the course of therapy? What are the internal and external threats to the alliance? Is the all iance in itself curative?