The therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial factors for the success of therapy or coaching. In fact, numerous studies show that the relationship between therapist and client is often more important than the method used or the specific tasks that are developed between the sessions. The connection and trust that builds up over time create a stable basis on which long -term changes can take place.
The role of the therapeutic relationship - more than just methodology
Scientific studies show that the therapeutic relationship is one of the largest influencing sacrifices on therapeutic success. Carl Rogers, a pioneer in humanistic psychotherapy, already emphasized in the 1950s that empathy, acceptance and authenticity were decisive for the healing process (Rogers, 1957). Recent meta-analyzes confirm that a trusting relationship is often more important than the technology used or the approach of the therapist (Norcross & Lambert, 2019). The quality of this relationship opens up the client space for honest reflection and the willingness to engage in new perspectives.
Why the actual change between the sessions happens
Therapy and coaching are not only limited to the meetings - the actual change often takes place "between the sessions". Here the coach or therapist sets targeted impulses that are supposed to stimulate new neural paths. These paths are initially only slightly indicated, but the thoughts come back again and again between the appointments. This repetition means that neuronal connections are strengthened and slowly fit into the client's thinking pattern.
The process can be compared well with a snowy hut and a path to the toilet outdoors: Initially, the client has to make a path through the fresh snow in the dark, which is often snowed again next time. But over time and frequent commitment, a firm path is created that is becoming increasingly easier to pass. Our brain works in a similar way - repeated thoughts and behaviors create new, strengthened paths.
Targeted and intuitive questions - a strategic process
During a session, the coach or therapist often asks questions that seem to appear intuitively. In reality, however, these questions are specifically and part of a strategy to promote neuronal changes. Some questions should make the clients look at deep -seated patterns from childhood that have become firm paths over the years. By repeatedly steering on new perspectives by coaching or therapy, the neuronal structures can change in the long term.
A therapist or coach knows exactly when and what questions are necessary to toast a sustainable change. It is important for the client to entrust themselves and patience to this process, as the results come through constant repetition and time. Success is often in small steps and increases over time - especially for those who "trust the process".
Examples of practice: old patterns and new ways
Many patterns and beliefs are created in childhood. These beliefs that memorize deep into the brain have been reinforced for years and have thus built up stable neuronal compounds. The path to a new pattern of thought therefore requires a lot of patience and constant repetition. Just as a deep snappy path to the toilet does not arise in one night, a new thought pattern cannot be developed in a single session.
An example from practice shows how clients through regular questioning of their own beliefs and the experience of AHA moments begin to consolidate new ways. The old path is less used over time, and the new, healthy path is increasingly being automated.
Essential results
Interestingly, some clients are often not convinced at the end of a coaching or therapy phase, even after six months or a year that they have achieved essential results. But if you carry out qualitative and quantitative analyzes and the results are compared specifically with the initially set goals, a different picture is often shown. For this reason, it is crucial to clearly define goals at the beginning, especially in coaching. These clear goals offer orientation and allow it to measure and make progress precisely.
In many cases, it shows that almost 90% of the goals originally set were actually achieved. Nevertheless, due to a "negativity bias" - a tendency to perceive negative impressions and experiences more - to underestimate their progress or simply no longer perceive them because they take it for granted. Clearly defined goals and regular success controls are therefore essential components to show clients their actual development and to illustrate how far they have already come on their way.
Differences between therapy and coaching
It is important to note that there are differences between coaching and therapy, even if both overlap in certain aspects. In therapy, the focus is often on the processing of past experiences, the healing of emotional wounds and the development of a deeper understanding of patterns and behaviors. This plays a central role in dealing with past experiences in order to promote long -term stability and self -image.
In coaching, on the other hand, the focus is on achieving clearly defined goals. The process is more goal -oriented and aims to support clients in their personal and professional development. Here specific strategies are developed to release the potential of the client and to implement the desired changes in practice.
Despite these different focuses, therapy and coaching overlap: Both promote personal development, offer support in difficult phases and help to develop new perspectives and behaviors.
"Trust the Process" - a key to success
Studies show that clients who get involved in the process and are willing to patiently wait for results are usually more successful (Horvath & Symonds, 1991). It is important to bring the necessary patience with you, since real, neuronal change need time and continuous reinforcement. The therapeutic relationship serves as the basis that gives the client security and trust in order to achieve profound changes. The key to success lies in this collaboration: the client creates the change itself, and the coach or therapist accompanies him as a supportive partner.
Sources:
- Rogers, C. R. (1957). The Necessary and Suffed Conditions of Therapeutic Personality Change. Journal of Consulting Psychology, 21(2), 95-103.
- Norcross, J. C., & Lambert, M. J. (2019). Evidence-based therapy relationships. Psychotherapy, 56(3), 421-423.
- Horvath, A. O., & Symonds, B. D. (1991). Relation between Working Alliance and Outcome in Psychotherapy: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 38(2), 139-149.
