RESOLVING A CHALLENGE TO THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP - A SINGLE-CASESTUDY

The selection of a case of demonstrated change using a quantitative cr iterion preceded an exploration of possible change mechanisms in thera py. Between-session variations in the therapeutic relationship reveale d by a quantitative measure prompted an intensive qualitative investig ation of in-session events. Within these events, the study focused on challenges to the therapeutic relationship and their subsequent resolu tion. Understanding the resolution of such challenges to the relations hip was guided by a rational model derived from the treatment rational e. A tentative account of the process of change is offered, and case r eplications are required to confirm and extend the findings.