Advisor
O'Halloran, M. Séan
Committee Member
Wright, Stephen L.
Committee Member
Murdock, Jennifer L.
Department
Counseling Psychology
Institution
University of Northern Colorado
Type of Resources
Text
Place of Publication
Greeley (Colo.)
Publisher
University of Northern Colorado
Date Created
8-1-2013
Genre
Thesis
Extent
402 pages
Digital Origin
Born digital
Abstract
The therapeutic working alliance is a vital ingredient to psychotherapy, specifically with clients diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) as progress is often slow and treatment difficult. This phenomenological study investigated the experiences of eight clients with AN and seven therapists who work with this population regarding how the working alliance was formed and challenged in the process of individual psychotherapy. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Findings revealed overarching themes among all the participants as well as themes unique to clients and therapists. The findings are discussed in the context of working alliance theory. Implications for therapists when forming the working alliance with clients with AN include remain patient while clients develop trust and motivation, maintain awareness of personal reactions and seek consultation/supervision, be active and directive at the beginning of treatment, use caution when creating therapy goals, collaborate with other treatment providers and family, implement basic counseling skills (e.g., unconditional positive regard, validation, authenticity), utilize appropriate self-disclosure, balance setting boundaries and portraying care, create a warm office environment, and have/gain experience treating this population. Additionally, implications for clients are discussed.
Degree type
PhD
Degree Name
Doctoral
Language
English
Local Identifiers
Oyer_unco_0161D_10250
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by author.
