What is Relational Transactional Analysis (TA) Psychotherapy?

Relational Transactional Analysis (RTA) is a form of psychotherapy that emphasises the importance of the relationship between the therapist and the client. It is a type of therapy that is designed to help people improve their communication and relationships with others. This approach is based on Transactional Analysis (TA), which was developed by Eric Berne in the 1950s.

The basic principles of RTA include the belief that people have the capacity to change and grow, and that these changes can occur in the context of a therapeutic relationship. The therapist acts as a facilitator of change, helping the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and to develop new ways of relating to others.

RTA is a relational approach to therapy, meaning that it focuses on the relationships between people, including the relationship between the therapist and the client. The therapist is not seen as an expert or authority figure, but rather as a partner in the therapeutic process. The therapist works collaboratively with the client to explore their experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and to help them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.

One of the key components of RTA is the concept of “strokes.” In TA, strokes refer to the ways in which people give and receive positive or negative attention. Positive strokes include things like praise, compliments, and affection, while negative strokes include criticism, disapproval, and rejection. According to RTA, people have a fundamental need for positive strokes, and when these needs are not met, they may develop negative patterns of behaviour in order to compensate.

Another important concept in RTA is the “life script.” This refers to the unconscious beliefs and assumptions that people develop early in life about themselves and their relationships with others. These beliefs and assumptions can have a powerful influence on people’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours throughout their lives, and can sometimes be limiting or self-defeating. RTA aims to help clients identify and change these limiting beliefs and assumptions, in order to live more fulfilling lives.

RTA is a versatile form of therapy that can be used to address a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and personality disorders. It is often used in individual therapy but can also be effective in group settings. RTA is typically a longer-term form of therapy and can involve weekly or bi-weekly sessions over the course of several months or years.

Overall, RTA is a powerful and effective approach to therapy that emphasizes the importance of relationships, communication, and personal growth. By helping clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships with others, RTA can help people to live more fulfilling and satisfying lives.