TAILORING THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP, OR BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHAMELEON

''Relationships of choice'' are no less important than ''techniques of choice'' for effective psychotherapy. A flexible repertoire of relati onship styles, plus a wide range of pertinent techniques seem to enhan ce treatment outcomes. Decisions regarding different relationship stan ces include when and how to be directive, Supportive, reflective, cold , warm, tepid, formal, or informal. If the therapist's style differs m arkedly from the patient's expectations, positive results are unlikely .