Author: Matías E. Salgado
Abstract:
Method of Levels (MOL) is a transdiagnostic approach to Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy based on Perceptual Control Theory (PCT). The “Therapeutic Alliance” (TA) has been recognized as a highly relevant aspect of the therapeutic process. This paper aims to make an introduction to the concepts developed by Mansell, Tai, & Carey (2012) about the TA. From an MOL perspective, an effective TA is the one that helps the client to talk “without filter” about his/her problems, facilitating the expression of those thoughts and feelings experienced in the “here and now”, facilitating also the reflection about them. In MOL, the main goal of the TA is to promote an atmosphere where the client can feel comfortable enough to express what he/she is experiencing. The environment that the therapist generates in order to help the client talk “without filter” and to facilitate therapeutic change comes from a therapeutic attitude that is genuine, curious, and attentive to the process that is occurring in the client in the present moment. For the client, this facilitates the process of gaining awareness of those high-level goals implicated in his/her psychological distress.
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References
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