Strengthening the Therapeutic Relationship: A Mixed-Methods Study on the Combined Effect of Developing Emotional Intelligence, Spiritual Intelligence, and Analytical Reasoning and Insight, in Talking Therapists.

As a Practice Manager of a private therapy centre, I鈥檝e become increasingly interested in how we can enrich our practice environments, not only through physical elements such as cleanliness, furnishings, or plants, but through deeper, more meaningful support that nurtures both mind and spirit. I鈥檝e noticed, in myself and others, that therapists can sometimes struggle with emotional regulation outside of the therapeutic space.

This observation led me to question: To what extent are we truly and consciously present with our clients? Beyond familiar patterns of nodding, empathising, and appearing engaged, how aware are we of our inner state and its impact on the therapeutic relationship, which we know to be central to effective outcomes? Research by Dr. Joseph Poullis has shown that trait emotional intelligence is indeed present in therapeutic settings, though not always consciously. His findings lend weight to the notion of a 鈥減erforming therapist.鈥� My goal is not to judge - au contraire - but to explore how we, as practitioners, can continue to evolve. Education, after all, is never a fixed destination; it is a lifelong journey.

My research into emotional intelligence naturally led me to spiritual intelligence. Dr. Yosi Amram, a pioneer in this field who has coached over 100 CEOs worldwide, defines spiritual intelligence not as religious belief, but as the embodiment of virtues such as purpose, gratitude, joy, and integrity - qualities that enhance wellbeing and leadership. I鈥檓 delighted to share that Dr. Amram has kindly granted my co-researchers (that鈥檚 you!) full access to his spiritual intelligence development materials free of charge. For therapists, this domain forms the foundation of truly effective practice.

In addition, in a world increasingly shaped by identity politics and binary thinking, cultivating analytical reasoning and insight (ARI) is vital. ARI allows us to suspend personal biases and remain fully present for our clients. This will form the third construct explored in this study. The objective of this study is to develop and integrate these three domains - emotional intelligence, spiritual intelligence, and analytical reasoning and insight - within the professional lives of talking therapists.

This is not merely a data-collection exercise; it is designed as a transformative journey for both self and profession. In fact, it may prove to be one of the most significant interventions in therapist development to date. Each of these domains has been proven individually to enhance therapeutic effectiveness. Yet, to date, no study has explored their combined synergy - and what transformative potential may arise from their integration.

For this research, I am seeking a minimum of 200 therapists willing to commit 1鈥�2 hours per week over a 6鈥�9-month period (depending on your pace).
There is no financial outlay or compensation. The development material is easy to follow, flexible, and entirely online, suitable for all abilities.

In return, participants will receive:

  • Access to world-class personal and professional development materials.
  • A potential deepening of your therapeutic practice and personal growth.
  • 30+ certified CPD hours upon completion.

For more information and details on how to take part, please see here.
For the participant information sheet, please see here.