A study to examine the association between the therapeutic relationship and the experience of client change as evidenced by changes observed by the therapist. The study focused on the real relationship component of the tripartite model, and mutual empathy and authenticity, elements of relational-cultural theory.
A correlational study design was used to explore the relationship among the relationship measure and outcome measures. Results indicated support for both the realism and genuineness element of the real relationship and also for mutual empathy and authenticity elements of relational-cultural theory.