Therapist Interpersonal Skills and Outcomes for Young People

What is this research about? This study looks at how therapists' interpersonal skills—such as empathy, authenticity (congruence), and warmth—affect therapy outcomes for young people aged 13-16. It examines whether these skills help young people feel better emotionally and how they compare to other factors, like the quality of the working relationship between therapist and client. Why is this important? With increasing numbers of young people experiencing mental health difficulties, it is crucial to understand what makes therapy effective for them. Many studies focus on the "therapeutic alliance" (how well a therapist and client work together), but this research highlights that a therapist's personal qualities—especially being genuine and transparent—are just as important in supporting young clients. What did the study find? • The study involved 167 young people receiving school-based humanistic therapy over ten weeks. • Therapists' interpersonal skills, particularly congruence (being genuine and real), were strongly linked to better mental health outcomes. • These interpersonal skills were just as important as the therapeutic alliance in predicting improvement. • Being honest, trustworthy, and warm helped young people feel more satisfied with therapy and contributed to better well-being. • Congruence was the strongest predictor of positive outcomes, suggesting that young people highly value authenticity in their therapists. Why does this matter? • For therapists: This study reinforces the importance of developing strong interpersonal skills, particularly being genuine and honest in their interactions with young clients. • For therapy training: Training programmes should emphasise developing these interpersonal skills alongside traditional therapeutic techniques. • For young people seeking therapy: It highlights the importance of finding a therapist who feels real and authentic, not just someone with the right qualifications. • For schools and policymakers: Supporting the development of these skills in school-based mental health interventions can improve the effectiveness of therapy for young people. This research suggests that being a warm, real, and trustworthy therapist can be just as crucial as using specific therapeutic techniques in helping young people improve their mental health. Why This Research is Important 1. Improving Therapy for Young People o Many young people struggle with mental health issues, and identifying what makes therapy effective can help improve services. o The study provides evidence that interpersonal skills, particularly trustworthiness (realness) and warmth, contribute to positive therapy outcomes. 2. Guidance for Therapists and Training Programmes o Training should focus not just on techniques but also on developing personal qualities like empathy, transparency, and warmth. o Supervision and self-care for therapists are essential, as maintaining authenticity requires emotional and professional support. 3. Informs Mental Health Policy and Services o Schools and youth services providing therapy should ensure therapists receive training in interpersonal skills. o Policies should emphasize the importance of these skills when designing mental health interventions for young people. 4. Supports Ethical, Client-Centred Practice o Young people highly value trust and authenticity in therapy. o This research backs up the idea that therapists should focus on creating an open, genuine connection with clients. By emphasising the value of a therapist's interpersonal qualities, this research provides clear guidance for improving therapy services and training to better support young people's mental health.