During which phase of the therapeutic alliance does the therapist focus on building rapport?

The phase during which the therapist focuses on building rapport is the initial phase. This phase is critical as it establishes the foundation for the therapeutic relationship. Building rapport involves creating a trusting environment where clients feel safe, respected, and understood.

In the initial phase, therapists often engage in active listening, demonstrating empathy, and validating clients' feelings, which are essential for fostering a strong connection. This rapport is crucial for effective therapy, as it enables clients to open up and discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences honestly.

The evaluation phase is more about assessing the client's needs and issues, while the termination phase deals with the conclusion of therapy and the client's progress. The follow-up phase involves maintaining the relationship after the formal sessions have ended, which is not about building initial rapport but rather reinforcing what has been learned. Therefore, the emphasis on developing rapport distinctly characterizes the initial phase of the therapeutic alliance.