First of all - what is long term therapy? I would say that this is anything lasting longer than a few months and successful therapy can last for years. Long term therapy is very much intertwined with the therapy relationship - that between client and therapist. And this is where the healing lies. Indeed, studies have shown that the actual type of therapy itself is irrelevant in determining the outcome - what is important is the therapeutic alliance - which consists of the goal (or contract) and the relationship. Key aspects of the relationship include trust, respect, openness and honesty, acceptance and attachment to name a few. And if there are problems in any of these particular areas that does not mean the relationship can’t work; far from it: the relationship can be the vehicle for the therapist and client to work through such problems, thus helping the client further.
The therapeutic relationship can offer a microscope to human relationships - in carefully considering what happens in the therapy room, in a safe and respectful way, thoughts, feelings, behaviours can be illuminated and explored. This can be both painful and challenging but can also bring intense relief and liberation. And from this, if desired, other options can be explored.
The goal - or contract within therapy can change and evolve over long term therapy - or indeed it may remain the same. The client and therapist will work towards the goal mutually and respectfully, reviewing the contract from time to time and as necessary. It is also useful for the client and therapist to check in with each other regularly to assess progress to make adjustments where needed and to keep the work on track.
Undertaking therapy is a commitment, a commitment to yourself. Doing this over a long period of time can be challenging but ultimately, developing a relationship over that length of time can lead to feelings of trust, acceptance and openness. These can give clients the strength to explore sides to themselves which have previously been difficult and the courage to begin to make changes in their lives.
The therapeutic relationship can offer a microscope to human relationships - in carefully considering what happens in the therapy room, in a safe and respectful way, thoughts, feelings, behaviours can be illuminated and explored. This can be both painful and challenging but can also bring intense relief and liberation. And from this, if desired, other options can be explored.
The goal - or contract within therapy can change and evolve over long term therapy - or indeed it may remain the same. The client and therapist will work towards the goal mutually and respectfully, reviewing the contract from time to time and as necessary. It is also useful for the client and therapist to check in with each other regularly to assess progress to make adjustments where needed and to keep the work on track.
Undertaking therapy is a commitment, a commitment to yourself. Doing this over a long period of time can be challenging but ultimately, developing a relationship over that length of time can lead to feelings of trust, acceptance and openness. These can give clients the strength to explore sides to themselves which have previously been difficult and the courage to begin to make changes in their lives.