Relational therapy is an approach that centers around the significance of relationships in our lives. While people often associate relationships solely with family and romantic partnerships, they extend beyond that scope to include connections with colleagues, neighbors, and community members. Developing the skills to navigate these relationships and establish new ones is a fundamental human need.

When a relationship is ruptured, it leaves us wounded and can evoke fear of engaging with others. These ruptures have the potential to cause psychological and emotional distress, with the severity and duration of the distress varying depending on the specific rupture.

How does Relational Therapy work?

Relational therapy provides a space where you will genuinely feel seen and heard by your therapist. Right from your initial interaction, there is a genuine sense of care and curiosity toward understanding who you are as an individual. Your therapist will demonstrate a strong desire to learn more about you, creating emotional space for open discussions and acknowledgment of any differences that exist between you and the therapist, such as race, gender, sexuality, age, religion, or culture.

Being "seen" in this context means that the person engaging with you comprehends your perspective and recognizes how your unique life experiences shape your beliefs, thoughts, and emotions. The foundation of a therapeutic relationship is established through the non-judgmental experience of being truly seen and understood.

Who can Relational Therapy help?

Relational therapy is frequently employed to address anxiety, stress, and depression. It can assist those grappling with relationship or family problems, workplace challenges, old traumas, difficulties adapting to new life circumstances, and intimacy issues. The central objective of relational therapy is to support clients in establishing stable and healthy connections with others. 

References:  National Counseling Society, Healthy Place, my Therapy NYC

Marcus Berley is a Self Space Seattle therapist who works with high-achieving people who want to access the deeper areas of their lived experience, including individuals who struggle to fully enjoy their success and couples who struggle to address conflict and cultivate a more intimate connection.