A qualitative and quantitative study of psychotherapists’ congruence in Singapore

Abstract

This study explores the phenomenological world of 11 Satir-based Singaporean Chinese therapists with regard to their experience of congruence. A mixed qualitative-cum-quantitative research method was used in this study. A phenomenological methodology was used to explore (a) the phenomenological world of therapists with regard to their lived experience of congruence in their personal or inner lives, (b) how this congruence is used in psychotherapy, and (c) how therapists can enhance their level of congruence. Quantitative findings include (a) significant nonparametric correlations among the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and transpersonal levels of congruence with overall congruence; (b) significant nonparametric correlation between intrapersonal congruence and interpersonal congruence; (c) significant nonparametric correlations between overall congruence and interpersonal congruence with self-esteem and life satisfaction; and (d) significant nonparametric correlations between intrapersonal congruence and self-esteem. These results may have research and clinical implications for the practice of psychotherapy.