Psychology MCAT Practice Exam 2025 – Complete All-in-One Guide to Ensure Your Success!

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What is meant by a "therapeutic alliance" in psychotherapy?

A formal agreement on treatment methods

A collaborative relationship between therapist and patient

A "therapeutic alliance" refers to the collaborative relationship established between a therapist and a patient during the course of therapy. This relationship is characterized by trust, mutual respect, and a shared goal of improving the patient's mental health. A strong therapeutic alliance is considered a crucial component in effective psychotherapy, as it fosters open communication and allows the patient to feel safe in expressing their thoughts and emotions. This bond encourages the patient to engage more fully in the therapeutic process, facilitating better outcomes.

While formal agreements on treatment methods, confidentiality, and shared knowledge of psychological theories may play a role in therapy, they do not encapsulate the essence of the therapeutic alliance. The alliance is primarily about the relational dynamic and collaboration between the therapist and the patient, which is key to achieving therapeutic goals.

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A mutual understanding of confidentiality

A shared knowledge of psychological theories

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