Date of Award
Spring 5-5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Major
Expressive Therapies
First Advisor
Angelle Cook
Abstract
Abstract
The therapeutic alliance is a well-studied, empirically based phenomenon with much research evidencing its importance in successful therapy. The triadic multi-dimensional relationship present in drama therapy, one of the seven core processes at work in drama therapy, has been identified as a significant agent contributing to the client’s therapeutic change. However, no data specifically compares the therapeutic alliance to the multi-dimensional relationship. As a foundational base for further exploration, this research project, qualitative and self-reflective, explored specific moments of connection between therapist and child client within two sessions. This research was presented from data recorded in journaling, thematic analysis, and an art-based response. This project reinforced the general importance of the positive relationship between therapist and client, further identifying specific behaviors uniquely present in the multi-dimensional relationship, which takes place within dramatic reality (a liminal, me/not me, space). As the multi-dimensional relationship is a key core process, and the therapeutic relationship has been empirically designated as key to successful psychotherapy, further research and study within this relational dynamic specific to drama therapy, including the triadic relationship between therapist, client, and art, is warranted.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Burdete, Erin R., "Therapeutic Alliance in Psychotherapy and Multidimensional Relationship in Drama Therapy: In and Out of Dramatic Reality" (2025). Expressive Therapies Theses. 61.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_therapies_theses/61
