Learning From Relational Excess

Abstract

Several authors have articulated problems facing aspects of relational theory. From an overemphasis on self-disclosure to the privileging of intersubjective treatment interventions, some think the pendulum of relational theory has swung too far beyond its apex. The potential negative implications of relational interventions are often difficult to assess by virtue of relatively little clinical material offered in connection with treatment failures in general, as well as relational theory’s de-emphasis of technique. In response to lessons learned only through the gauntlet of clinical experience, the author discusses some limitations endemic to a relational sensibility. The author offers a composite case example between a patient named John and himself that occurred over an 18-month period of treatment. This case illustrates some of the negative clinical implications emanating from the abandonment of technique within relational thinking. In discussing the case, the author argues his struggles are best seen as a function of fundamentally inconsistent messaging regarding clinical technique intrinsic to relational thinking. The author then suggests some cursory theoretical directions where more thorough efforts toward relational revisions might be focused in the future to chart a more viable path for relational thinking going forward.