The therapeutic relationship and alliance

Abstract New to the second edition of this book, this chapter describes the therapeutic relationship and alliance, as well as ways to facilitate them. The therapeutic relationship and alliance represent integral components of successful therapy and often lead to augmented therapeutic outcomes. Because of the use of music as a medium for initiating therapeutic change, music therapists can efficiently and effectively establish a positive alliance with their service users. This chapter provides an overview of the theoretical and empirical literature related to alliance in therapy, and it concludes with specific suggestions music therapists can implement to augment the likelihood of a positive alliance and ensuing therapeutic outcome.