ABSTRACT
As within any relationship, tensions will arise between the therapist and client. Point 3 describes examples of such tensions. As illustrated in that Point, DBT therapists attempt to resolve such con¯icts by searching for syntheses, particularly those that validate both sides and move the treatment toward agreed-upon goals. When therapy tensions have not been successfully resolved they often result in therapy-interfering behaviours. For example, if a therapist simply confronted a client about abusing drugs but never offered alternative solutions that could achieve the client's goal of regulating affect, the client may begin to lie to the therapist about taking drugs.
