title: Integrative techniques related to positive processes in psychotherapy.
abstract: This review compiles and evaluates a number of therapist interventions that have been found to significantly contribute to positive psychotherapy processes (i.e., increased alliance, patient engagement/satisfaction, and symptomatic improvement). Four forms of intervention are presented: Affect-focused, Supportive, Exploratory, and Patient-Therapist Interaction. The intention of this review is to link specific interventions to applied practice so that integrative clinicians can potentially use these techniques to improve their clinical work. To this end, there is the inclusion of theory and empirical studies from a range of orientations including Emotionally Focused, Psychodynamic, Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, Eclectic, and Motivational Interviewing. Each of the four sections will include the theoretical basis and proposed mechanism of change for the intervention, research that supports its positive impact on psychotherapy processes, and conclude with examples demonstrating its use in actual practice. Clinical implications and considerations regarding the use of these interventions will also be presented.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, New York, USA. thomascromer@gmail.com
authors.forename: Thomas D
authors.initials: TD
authors.lastname: Cromer
mesh_terms: D000339:Affect; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D004645:Empathy; D006801:Humans; D009042:Motivation; D009633:Nonverbal Communication; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D013811:Psychotherapeutic Processes; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D012944:Social Support