Table 4 Core Themes of Therapeutic alliance

Congruence

Agreement on goals

32 (24.6)

Problem identification

19 (14.6)

Agreement on tasks

27 (20.7)

Connectedness

Perceived good relationship

14 (8.7)

Friendliness

21 (20.3)

Empathy

16 (9.7)

Caring

15 (15.5)

Warmth

13 (10)

Genuine interest/concern^a

14 (10.7)

Therapist faith/belief^a in patient

8 (7.7)

Honesty^a

2 (1.5)

Courtesy^a

4 (3.0)

Communication

Nonverbal

24 (18.4)

Listening skills

39 (30)

Visual aids

7 (5.3)

Clear explanation and information^a

26 (20)

Positive feedback^a

9 (6.9)

Expectation

Therapy

25 (19.2)

Outcomes

22 (16.9)

Individualized therapy

Responsiveness

9 (6.9)

Holistic practice

8 (7.7)

 External factors

Structures, processes and environment

17 (13.1)

 Therapist prerequisite

Skill and competence and experience

30 (23.1)

Personal characteristics

13 (10)

Humor

7 (5.3)

Life experiences

7 (5.3)

Emotional intelligence^a

3 (2.3)

 Patient prerequisite

Personal characteristics

6 (4.6)

Existing resources

10 (7.7)

Life experiences

11 (8.4)

Willingness to engage

11 (8.4)

Partnership

Trust/dependability

23 (17.6)

Respect

19 (14)

Mutual understanding

24 (18.4)

Knowledge exchange

19 (14.6)

Power balance

6 (4.6)

Active involvement/engagement

28 (21.5)

Roles and responsibilities

Activating patient’s resources

17 (13.1)

Motivator/Encourager^a

26 (20)

Professional manner

13 (10)

Educator/Adviser^a/Guide^a

11 (8.4)

Active follow-up^a

5 (3.8)

Autonomy support^a

3 (2.3)