Relational therapy, also known as relational-cultural therapy or relational psychotherapy, is primary modality used at Expansive Therapy, and is a therapeutic approach rooted in the belief that healing occurs within the context of relationships. Rather than focusing solely on individual pathology, relational therapy emphasizes the importance of interpersonal connections and their impact on mental health and well-being. Here are five benefits of relational therapy, supported by research.

1. Enhanced Relationship Satisfaction and Communication Skills

Study: Johnson et al., 2005

Research published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy by Johnson and colleagues investigated the effectiveness of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a prominent relational therapy approach, in improving relationship satisfaction and communication among couples. The study found that couples who underwent EFT reported significant enhancements in both relationship satisfaction and communication skills compared to those on a waitlist control. Relational therapy provides a safe space for couples to explore their underlying dynamics, express emotions, and develop healthier ways of relating to each other, ultimately fostering stronger and more fulfilling relationships.

2. Healing Past Trauma and Attachment Wounds

Study: Diamond et al., 2003

Traumatic experiences and attachment wounds can profoundly impact individuals' relational patterns and psychological well-being. Relational therapy offers a reparative space for processing past trauma and addressing attachment-related issues. Research conducted by Diamond and colleagues, published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress, explored the effectiveness of relational therapy in treating trauma survivors with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study found that relational therapy facilitated significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, interpersonal functioning, and overall quality of life. By fostering a supportive therapeutic relationship, relational therapy helps clients heal relational wounds and cultivate a sense of safety and trust in their interactions with others.

3. Increased Self-Awareness and Personal Growth

Study: Knox et al., 2006

Self-awareness is a fundamental aspect of personal growth and development. Relational therapy encourages clients to explore their relational patterns, dynamics, and internal experiences within the context of therapeutic relationships. Research conducted by Knox and colleagues, published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology, examined the impact of relational factors in therapy on clients' self-awareness and personal growth. The study found that clients who experienced strong therapeutic alliances characterized by empathy, genuineness, and collaboration reported greater gains in self-awareness and personal growth. Relational therapy provides a reflective space for clients to gain insight into themselves, their relationships, and their life experiences, facilitating profound personal transformation.

4. Improved Emotional Regulation and Resilience

Study: Bohart et al., 2002

In a meta-analysis published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology, Bohart and colleagues examined the effectiveness of humanistic and experiential therapies, which incorporate many relational elements, in promoting emotional regulation and resilience. The analysis revealed that clients who received humanistic and experiential therapies experienced significant improvements in emotional regulation and coping abilities. Relational therapy encourages clients to explore and express their emotions within the therapeutic relationship, facilitating greater emotional awareness and regulation in their everyday lives. By developing a secure therapeutic alliance, clients can build resilience and navigate life's challenges more effectively.

5. Long-lasting Behavioral Change and Well-being

Study: Norcross et al., 2011

The ultimate goal of therapy is to facilitate long lasting behavioral change and promote overall well-being. Research conducted by Norcross and colleagues, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, investigated the factors associated with successful therapy outcomes, including long-term behavioral change and subjective well-being. The study identified the therapeutic relationship, characterized by empathy, collaboration, and mutual respect, as a key predictor of positive treatment outcomes and sustained well-being. Relational therapy prioritizes the development of a strong therapeutic alliance, laying the foundation for enduring behavioral change and enhanced psychological functioning.

At our practice, we believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of all healing. With all of these research-based benefits in mind, it's important to remember that forming a trusting and solid therapeutic relationship takes time. Healing happens at the speed of trust building, so keep that in mind as you start your therapy journey. This isn't to say that therapy needs to take years, but that is usually does take 2-3 months of therapy to build that foundation of trust. Make sure you match up with a therapist who you feel a certain chemistry with, who you respect and with whom you can imagine building a vulnerable and trusted relationship.