Volume 26, Issue 2
DOI: 10.24205/03276716.2017.1017
Phases of The Therapeutic Alliance In Eating Disorders
Abstract
The aim of this research is to describe the evolution of the therapeutic alliance and its phases in the treatment of patients with eating disorders. A qualitative, analytical-descriptive design was applied based on the Grounded Theory. The sample included 20 Chilean patients suffering from eating disorders according to DSM-5 criteria. Results indicate that therapeutic alliance evolves within three stages that show the following characteristics: 1. First phase (knowledge): distrust, resistance, need for a diagnosis and false complacence predominate, 2. Second phase (trust and consolidation): deeper items are elaborated, therapeutic relationship improves, motivation for treatement emerges, 3. Third phase (re-signification): management of relapses is made, illness is re-defined and the end of the therapy is visualized. A climate of contention, support and security for patients is emphasized, reproducing a comprehensive and unconditional maternal role.
Keywords
therapeutic alliance, eating disorders, psychotherapy