1. Relational Theory

2. Evolution of Relational Theory
Etiology of theory from early ’80’s linking object relations, self-psychology and interpersonal theories into a relational paradigm
Psychic reality viewed as encompassing both intrapsychic and interpersonal worlds
Intrapsychic representations include the self, the other and the interaction between them
Interpersonal processes alter intrapsychic processes and vice versa
Changing patterns of interaction perpetually transform themselves

3. Evolution of Relational Theory (cont.)
Mentally healthy person has positive representations of self, good representations of others
Facilitates formation of good interpersonal relationships

4. Influence of Postmodernism and Feminism
Postmodernism: No one “truth”- reality is in the eyes of the beholder
Standpoint: truth given where one “stands” within the socioeconomic cultural milieu
Feminism: mutuality, partnership, equality in relationship, empowerment, non-hierarchical

5. Therapeutic Relationship: Transference and Countertransference
Therapeutic relationship is not the individual but an international field wherein client demonstrates and evolves herself
An individual is understandable only through the composite of present and past relationships
Transference NOT seen as a distortion projected onto therapist
Seen as a “real” social response to actions of therapist
Countertransference is therapist’s subjective experiences of therapeutic relationship plus patient’s transference
Intersubjectivity: System of reciprocal mutual influence and mutual recognition
Primary clinical question is NOT “what does it mean to client…” rather:
“ What is going on between client and therapist?”

6. Therapeutic Relationship: Techniques of Relational Therapy
Interaction-driven techniques: Balancing comfort with challenge to expand cognitive and emotional capacities
Joining techniques: to build alliance, mirroring, empathizing, supporting
Separating techniques: reality testing, reframing, interpreting, uncovering unconscious
Joining and separating techniques : silence, free association, use of therapist’s fleeting thoughts

7. Cultural Relational Theory
Self-in-relation theory formulated by members of the Stone Center (1990’s)
Challenges separation/individuation paradigm and suggests relationship differentiation
Based on a model of female developmental theory that stresses females strive to be relationally connected
Women's relational bonds are devalued and described as “dependency”

8. Components of Cultural Relational Theory
Mutual empathy: a mutual, interactive process providing a way to join within an emotional, attentive and responsive way
Relationship authenticity: dialog which is responsive to both parties; therein allowing each to be “true”
“ to find one’s voice”
Relationship differentiation: willingness to allow EACH person to change and grow
Self-empathy: inner sense of relationship fostered by therapists empathy to the client

9. Cultural Relational Theory and Women’s Groups
A stage model for women’s groups which emphasizes connection to other
!st stage: Preaffiliation, tentativeness observation
2nd stage: Establishing a relational base, rather than moving into power and control
Discover shared experiences, seek approval from and connection to others and safety
3rd.stage: empathic attunement marked by intimacy and mutual Intersubjectivity
4th stage: questioning and change: themselves, others and the group leader
Can demonstrate anger in a safe environment
5th stage: normative feelings associated with endings

10. Relational Theory and Diversity
Critique has been over-focus on mother/daughter relationship
Gender may not be the central dynamic affecting women of color
Racial and social oppression, economic status, acculturation, minority identity development affect minority females

11. Summary
Relational theory and practice a post-modern perspective
Therapeutic relationship is interactive highlighting empathy, authenticity and mutually enhancing growth