My therapist is a Relational analyst so the relationship is considered the medium through which most of the work is done. Lots of psychoanalytically informed approaches pay lots of attention to the relationship, but usually to the distortions that may occur. Relational is different in that it acknowledges a real relationship; it tries to reduce the hierarchy, increase openness and transparency, encourage good use of self-disclosure, and foster a mutuality, or a deeply respectful recognition of each other.

Since both of us know about these principles, when they happen we each recognize that. We don't always talk about it though. At first it was just forming and felt awkward though was encouraged. And now the relationship is settled and clear so a lot doesn't need to be discussed explicitly. In the middle and at times of tension, it is something that is openly explored and sometimes altered. His position is that he wants and needs to modify to adapt to me and even shifts in me so that he can best help me.