Cognitive interpersonal cycles: challenges and strategies to the strengthen the therapeutic relation

Abstract

Assuming Jeremy Safran theoretical proposal as the frame conceptual approach, the present article is devoted to the problematic of cognitive interpersonal cycles and, in its scope, to their relevance in the context of relationally focused intervention. We proceed to a comprehensive synthesis of the construct in analysis, emphasizing its major referents and highlighting the key attributes that characterize it. These elements exposed, we progress to the examination of the specificities that the process of developing and strengthening of the therapeutic relationship should assume in this context, in specific, underlining, in this matter, its fundamental role as an instrument of the therapeutic process itself. We briefly explore how this relationship can constitute, in itself, as an important mechanism for the disconfirmation of maladaptive schemes and unbundling of crystallized interpersonal cognitive cycles. We present, in addition to the above, some strategies and techniques of strengthening of this therapeutic alliance, of which excels the meta-communication, given its gains in the establishment of an adaptive relationship between patient and therapist. We conclude by presenting a critical analysis of current studies, referencing future research needs.

Keywords

• ciclos cognitivos interpessoais, relação terapêutica, intervenção focada nas relações