Rapport

Rapport (from the French rapport - relationship, connection) - in psychotherapy it is a relationship of trust and understanding between the therapist and the client.

Rapport is the basis of effective psychotherapy. It allows the client to feel comfortable, safe, open and sincere during sessions. And it gives the psychotherapist the opportunity to better understand the client’s problems and experiences.

To establish rapport, the therapist shows empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. He listens carefully to the client, asks open-ended questions, and uses reflection and paraphrasing. All this helps the client open up and trust the psychotherapist.

Thus, rapport is a fundamental element without which psychotherapy cannot be effective. Establishing strong rapport is the primary goal of the psychotherapist.