With the heart as a tool - personal anchoring in psychotherapy : How can psychotherapists' implicit theories relate to common factors and psychotherapy outcome?

In this study, experienced psychotherapists' implicit theories about psychotherapy were explored in six interviews. The analyze was done using a thematic analysis, where the data was analyzed based on the contextual model and the theory of implicit theories and put in relation to research on psychotherapy outcome. The result highlights a holistic and dynamic approach to psychotherapy with a humanistic view of humanity. Psychotherapy is seen as a collaboration with shared responsibility and a craft in constant development. Implicit theories about the importance of security, empathy, equality, genuine interest and a belief in intrinsic abilities emerge, which harmonize with the contextual model. These implicit theories can work to promote the therapeutic relationship as well as continuous development as a therapist, which in turn can be linked to positive outcomes. Implications for further research are suggested.