A Qualitative Analysis of Client Perceptions of the Effects of Helpful Therapist Self-Disclosure in Long-Term Therapy

Authors

Sarah Knox, Marquette UniversityFollow
Shirley A. Hess, University of Maryland - College ParkFollow
David A. Petersen, University of Maryland - College Park
Clara E. Hill, University of Maryland - College ParkFollow

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Publication Date

7-1997

Publisher

American Psychological Association

Source Publication

Journal of Counseling Psychology

Source ISSN

0022-0167

Abstract

Thirteen adult psychotherapy clients currently in long-term therapy were interviewed twice, with semistructured protocols, about their experiences with helpful instances of therapist self-disclosure. Data were analyzed with a qualitative methodology. Results indicated that helpful therapist self-disclosures (a) occurred when these clients were discussing important personal issues, (b) were perceived as being intended by therapists to normalize or reassure the clients, and (c) consisted of a disclosure of personal nonimmediate information about the therapists. The therapist self-disclosures resulted in positive consequences for these clients that included insight or a new perspective from which to make changes, an improved or more equalized therapeutic relationship, normalization, and reassurance. Implications for psychotherapy are discussed.

Comments

Accepted version. Journal of Counseling Psychology, Vol. 44, No. 3 (July 1997): 274-283. DOI. © 1997 American Psychological Association. Used with permission.

Sarah Knox was affiliated with the University of Maryland - College Park at the time of publication.

Recommended Citation

Knox, Sarah; Hess, Shirley A.; Petersen, David A.; and Hill, Clara E., "A Qualitative Analysis of Client Perceptions of the Effects of Helpful Therapist Self-Disclosure in Long-Term Therapy" (1997). College of Education Faculty Research and Publications. 455.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/edu_fac/455