| The therapeutic alliance is commonly regarded by researchers and mental health practitioners as one of the most important variables in treatment (Horvath, 2000; Martin, Garske, & Davis, 2000; Scaturo, 2010). Thus it is increasingly important to identify variables that enhance and strengthen this alliance. This study investigated the link between mindfulness and the therapeutic alliance using data collected from 25 clients and 4 therapists from a local rape crisis center. Using a series of hierarchical regressions this study provides some evidence that the mindfulness of the therapist enhances the comfort level of the client and their willingness to honestly and openly disclose and discuss the symptoms that they are experiencing. Additionally, there is some evidence that increased mindfulness on the part of the therapist results in decreased levels of depressive symptom severity. However, the overall findings do not support the hypotheses of this study. Further research is needed to determine what role mindfulness plays in the therapeutic process as well as how it influences the therapeutic alliance. |
