THERAPEUTIC AND CONTROL RELATIONS IN MENTAL-HEALTH-SERVICES - A SYSTEMIC VIEW

The interaction between therapists of mental health services and their clients takes place in complex social contexts, by which it is highly influenced. The author proposes to look upon this interaction as a communicational act between at least three partners. In addition to the relationship of the therapist and his client there is always a relationship between the two and another, factor X, that takes influence on the above relationship. From the point of view of the therapist three definitions of the relationship to the client are possible; the therapeutical-relationship, the controlling-relationship and the relationship that fits a special purpose. The influence of X on the relationship between therapist and client according to therapy or control issue is discussed, where X can become different aspects of the triadic communication as e.g. services offered at the mental health station, institutional structural problems. the ''correct'' approach. or well-being.