Why the Therapeutic Alliance Matters in Psychiatry: Recognizing and Repairing Ruptures with Dr. Catherine Eubanks

Nov 11, 2025
55 mins

Episode Description

Dr. Catherine Eubanks, PhD joins us to unpack the therapeutic alliance in everyday practice: how to spot withdrawal and confrontation ruptures, why Bordin’s goals–tasks–bond still predicts outcomes, and how metacommunication jump starts repair. We translate research into concrete moves you can use in brief psychiatric visits, psychotherapy, and supervision. We discuss telehealth, boundaries, and measuring ruptures with the 3RS system. Clinicians, trainees, and curious listeners will leave with a clearer lens and usable language for repair that strengthens trust and improves care across settings.

Upcoming Workshop

Alliance Rupture Repair with Dr. J. Christopher Muran & Dr. Catherine EubanksWhen: Thursday, November 13 (1:00–4:00 PM EST)Where: Virtual via ZoomCost: $60 CE | $50 General | Students 50% off (code: STU)CEs: APA for psychologists; NYSED for LCAT, LCSW, and clinical psychologists

Description:A 3-hour transtheoretical workshop on recognizing and repairing alliance ruptures. Includes didactics, video analysis, and skills training to improve repair strategies and strengthen therapeutic effectiveness.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alliance-rupture-repair-3-ces-tickets-1797546502979?aff=oddtdtcreator

Recommended Books & Videos

Therapist Performance Under Pressure: Negotiating Emotion, Difference, and Ruptureby Catherine Eubanks & J. Christopher Muranhttps://www.apa.org/pubs/books/therapist-performance-under-pressure

Rupture and Repair in Psychotherapy: A Critical Process for Changeedited by J. Christopher Muran, Catherine Eubanks, & Lisa Wallner Samstaghttps://www.apa.org/pubs/books/rupture-repair-psychotherapy

Video: Rupture and Repair in Psychotherapyhttps://www.apa.org/pubs/videos/rupture-repair-psychotherapy

Alliance-Focused Training: An Evidence-Based Guide to Negotiating Ruptures in Therapyby J. Christopher Muran, Catherine Eubanks, Lisa Wallner Samstag, & James Macdonaldhttps://www.apa.org/pubs/books/alliance-focused-traininga

Video: Using Alliance-Focused Traininghttps://www.apa.org/pubs/videos/using-alliance-focused-training



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