ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors describe mindfulness- and compassion-oriented integrative psychotherapy (MCIP) as a relational form of psychotherapy that views the client and therapist as an intersubjective system of reciprocal influence. MCIP is informed by attachment theory and other developmental theories that describe the importance of the need for relationships throughout our lives. The authors present the integrative model of interpersonal relationship that helps to understand the clients in terms of three main bipolar dimensions: autonomy – dependence, connectedness – alienation, and mutuality – self-absorption. One of the goals in MCIP is that clients develop the capacity for subject relations, which manifests in qualities of autonomy, connectedness, and mutuality. Related to that, the authors discuss the importance of the therapist’s attunement to the client’s relational needs, repair of ruptures in the alliance and “moments of meeting” between the client and the therapist. They propose that the therapist’s contact with the observing self, mindful awareness, and compassion are crucial for the development of the subject–subject relationship. They also emphasise the moments of shared conscious presence that can emerge when both the client and the therapist are in touch with the observing self and are fully present with each other.
