Exciting RLT Research Updates- Thanks to You!

6/9/2025

Thanks to your continued support, Relational Life Foundation has been making major strides in researching and expanding the reach of Relational Life Therapy (RLT). Your generous donations have directly contributed to three groundbreaking research studies, each helping to validate and grow the powerful impact of RLT in the world.

But that’s not all. We've had some exciting leadership changes that are shaping the next chapter of our mission. Here's what we’ve been up to, and what’s coming next.

Leadership Shifts with Big Impacts

We’re thrilled to share that Terry Real, LICSW, the brilliant founder of RLT, has stepped into a new role as Chair and President of the Relational Life Foundation Board of Directors.

In this role, Terry will guide the expansion of RLT’s reach, lead vital research efforts, and champion the integration of RLT into university and college curricula around the world. Our shared goal? For RLT to be taught in 50+ academic institutions by 2030 — and we're well on our way.
Want to learn more about Relational Life Therapy and how it works?

At the same time, we’re saying a heartfelt thank you and farewell to Dr. Cathy Hill, who has served as our Director of Research for the past five years. Cathy’s leadership has been central to advancing our research programs. She’ll be staying on through the transition to see our current studies through to publication, and we’re deeply grateful for her dedication.

Stepping into the fold is Dr. Jae Sevelius, a clinical psychologist, researcher, and professor at Columbia University. With over two decades of experience at the intersection of mental health, social justice, and community empowerment, Jae brings a powerful vision to our research strategy. We couldn’t be more excited about the future.

The Research: What You Helped Make Happen

1. The RLT Relationship Grid Study
At the heart of RLT is the Relationship Grid, a unique tool that helps therapists understand the dynamics between partners. Our research sought to validate the Grid as a reliable, clinically useful assessment — and the results are really encouraging.

With strong statistical reliability and clinical relevance, the Relationship Grid outperforms traditional tools in identifying couple dynamics.

Studies show it effectively maps conflict behaviors using Self-Esteem and Boundaries, correlates with mental health markers like depression and anxiety, and offers powerful insights into how partners perceive one another—especially with the new Partner GRID. Bottom line? It’s simple, intuitive, and making therapy more effective.

2. Training Outcome Study (Writing Phase)
RLT training is making waves. Inspired by research in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), our Training Outcome Study shows that RLT delivers equal or even greater impact—boosting practitioner knowledge, skills, and personal growth. As we dig into which aspects of the training are most effective, we're not just validating RLT — we're helping shape the future of therapist education. Stay tuned for published results!

3. Therapy Outcome Study (Resuming 2026)
Our biggest study yet is underway. Our Therapy Outcome Study is tracking how RLT works in real-world settings, blending both efficacy and effectiveness research. Clients complete pre- and post-treatment questionnaires, and we’re comparing results with existing studies to see how RLT stacks up. We're aiming to publish initial findings by mid-2026.

Behind the Scenes: What Research Takes

Your contributions do more than fund ideas — they fuel rigorous, ethical research. Each dollar helps us create credible, peer-reviewed evidence that supports RLT's power to transform relationships — and lives.

Support Our Research

Every step we take in growing and validating RLT is thanks to you. Your donations are helping us bring real-world, research-backed relational healing to therapists, couples, and communities everywhere.
With leaders like Terry Real at the helm, a dynamic research team, and your ongoing support, we’re building a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

If you’re excited about these developments, please consider donating again, joining our mailing list, or sharing our mission with your community through social media.

The future of relationships is relational — and we’re so glad you’re on this journey with us.

Thank You for Fueling This Movement!

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