The Therapeutic Alliance - Mutual Recognition and Power (Benjamin and Beyond)
Why the Alliance Matters
Every counselling model, whether psychodynamic, cognitive, or integrative, recognises one fact: without a strong therapeutic alliance, very little change occurs. Research consistently shows that the quality of the relationship between counsellor and client is one of the strongest predictors of outcome.
For trainees, this raises a critical question: What makes an alliance strong?
Beyond Rapport: Benjamin’s Contribution
Jessica Benjamin, writing from the 1980s onwards, brought a sharp focus to the balance of recognition and power in relationships.
Benjamin’s key idea is mutual recognition: the process by which both parties acknowledge each other as separate, autonomous subjects. In therapy, this means that the counsellor does not position themselves as the “expert” who knows all, nor as a passive mirror. Instead, the counsellor recognises the client as a person with agency, while also being recognised themselves as a real person in the room.
This balance addresses a common trap for trainees: either over-directing the client, or disappearing into neutrality. Both extremes weaken the alliance.
Power in the Therapy Room
Power is unavoidable. The client enters vulnerable, seeking help, while the counsellor holds knowledge, structure, and authority. Benjamin’s framework encourages us to acknowledge power openly rather than deny it.
Examples include:
Setting boundaries around time and confidentiality (a necessary use of power).
Noticing when a client defers excessively to the counsellor.
Being alert to moments when a client tests the counsellor’s authority.
When handled with openness, these dynamics deepen trust rather than threaten it.
Practical Applications for Trainees
Do Not Fear Being Real
If a client asks, “Are you listening?” the counsellor can respond directly, “Yes, I am, and I hear how important it is that you feel I am present.” Mutual recognition requires authenticity.Balance Authority with Collaboration
You are guiding the process, but the client’s experience must remain central. Invite collaboration: “How does it feel for you when we discuss this in this way?”Notice Power Dynamics
A client who flatters, challenges, or resists may be responding to perceived authority. Recognising this dynamic without judgement is key.
Integrating Other Theorists
Freud: Saw transference as a repetition of earlier relationships.
Bowlby and Ainsworth: Showed that attachment histories influence how clients relate to authority figures.
Benjamin: Adds that the counsellor must allow themselves to be recognised, not only observe recognition in the client.
This makes the alliance not a one-way relationship, but a living, two-person interaction.
Conclusion
The therapeutic alliance is more than warmth or rapport. It is an active, negotiated relationship in which mutual recognition and an honest awareness of power create safety and trust. For trainees, learning to balance authority with authenticity is one of the most challenging, and most essential, professional skills.
