Beyond any single modality or technique, effective psychotherapy rests on a few essential ingredients, and this training examines them. Drawing on outcome research, attachment theory and relational neuroscience, participants study the foundational principles that set the stage for healing: empathy, authenticity, attunement, safety and trust. The focus is on the therapist’s use of self, the therapeutic alliance and building presence in the room. Case examples and experiential reflection help clinicians reconnect with the purpose of their work and see more clearly what really drives change in therapy.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Identify at least five core relational principles that contribute to effective therapeutic outcomes.
- Describe the role of the therapeutic alliance and the therapist’s use of self in creating safety and trust.
- Apply strategies to enhance presence, empathy, and attunement in clinical practice.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Identify at least five core relational principles that contribute to effective therapeutic outcomes.
- Client variables
- Agreement on therapeutic goals and means
Objective #2: Describe the role of the therapeutic alliance and the therapist’s use of self in creating safety and trust.
- The importance of rapport
- How the nervous system heals in session
- The role of attachment wounds
Objective #3: Apply strategies to enhance presence, empathy, and attunement in clinical practice.
- Therapist use of self
- Factors that facilitate attunement
- Mindfulness
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: July 11, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com