The Therapeutic Alliance
Ilario Mammone, Davide Di Francesco, Aristotele Hadjichristos, Rosario Capo
The Therapeutic Alliance (TA) is a crucial element in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder (BD), primarily for its ability to combine symptom stabilization with identity cohesion. This article includes the presentation and discussion, in three distinct phases, of a clinical case illustrating how the TA can foster both treatment adherence and the consolidation of a more stable sense of self. An integrative biopsychosocial model is proposed, combining pharmacological interventions, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and third-wave therapies, while emphasizing the central role of the therapeutic relationship. Starting from an analysis of the concept of «fractured sense of identity» in BD, empowerment and recovery are highlighted as fundamental levers to improve quality of life and promote a more cohesive sense of self. The case discussion further shows how a holistic, personalized approach can support mood stability and personal growth. Finally, the main operational junctures and clinical implications are discussed, underscoring the need for further longitudinal studies to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of this integrative intervention.
Keywords
Therapeutic alliance, Bipolar disorder, Identity fracture, Empowerment, Recovery, Third-wave therapies.
