Through conducting thorough and extensive research studies,
we aim to prove RLT 'Evidence-Based'.

The Importance of Being
​Evidence Based

• Raises the profile of RLT
• Allows for inclusion in APA education and clinical training programs, which would greatly increase exposure
• Paves the way for funding for further research and dissemination of the RLT model

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Initial Undertakings

Increase RLT 's Profile with a Wider Audience
We are in the process of publishing an academic article to illustrate the theory and rationale that forms the foundation of RLT. This will help pave the way for publication of a research study.

​Advising on the writing of an RLT Treatment Manual
The existence of such a manual makes it possible for instructors to teach the model in multi-method courses, and for future researchers to easily design controlled research projects.

Our Current Research Projects
click the buttons below to learn about each study

Therapist Training Outcome Study

The purpose is to assess and compare various components of the therapist training in Relational Life Therapy (RLT). Our working hypothesis is that the live practice and integration training will add significantly to the development of therapists’ ability to provide effective couples therapy.
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Relationship Grid Survey

Developed from clinical experience, the RLT Relationship Grid provides a powerful map for individuals and couples to understand their roles in conflict. It also turns out to have overlapping qualities with assessment tools used in personality and clinical research, and may prove to have greater clinical utility, particularly for couples therapists.

Couples Therapy Outcome Study

In order to be considered an evidence based treatment RLT needs to conduct at least two therapy outcome studies.  These studies need to demonstrate that there is a significant improvement in the behaviors or other variables being targeted by the treatment, and that the improvement is a result of the intervention. ​

RLT Case Study

Case studies help a method of therapy reach new audiences, and provide stimulus for discussion and analysis.  Simply being able to refer to an article published in a peer reviewed journal helps a model gain validity within academic and professional spheres. 

References for the Above Write-Ups

American Psychological Association (APA) Presidential Task Force on Evidence-Based Practice. (2006) Evidence-based practice in psychology. (American Psychologist, 61(4), 271–285. https://doi-org.proxy.lib.sfu.ca/10.1037/0003-066X.61.4.271

Chambless, D. L., & Hollon, S. D. (1998). Defining empirically supported therapies. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 66(1), 7–18. https://doi-org.proxy.lib.sfu.ca/10.1037/0022-006X.66.1.7

Leary T. (1957). Interpersonal Diagnosis of Personality: A Functional Theory and Methodology for Personality Evaluation. New York: Ronald Press.

Locke, K. D. (2006). Interpersonal circumplex measures. In S. Strack (Ed.), Differentiating normal and abnormal personality (pp. 383–400). Springer Publishing Company.

Real, T. (2007). The New Rules of Marriage. New York: Ballantine Books.