The real relationship in a postmodern world: theoretical and empirical explorations.

A theory of the real relationship, including its place in the overall therapeutic relationship, is amplified. The real relationship is seen as a key component of all psychotherapy relationships. It exists from the first moment of contact between therapist and patient, and it deepens as the work progresses. Recently, reliable measures of the real relationship from the therapist's and client's perspectives have been developed, and these measures have demonstrated sound beginning validity. Studies have explored the variables with which the real relationship correlates and have demonstrated significant relationships to treatment progress and outcome. The real relationship appears to be a promising variable for future study, and potentially fruitful directions for such study are noted.