The therapeutic relationship is conceptualised as a magnetic field with different vibrating frequencies at either pole. Each frequency attracts or repels another with a different strength. In order to provide an active and visually oriented presentation, magnetic rods are used as props to represent the emotional link between therapist and client. The model is used to demonstrate a new perspective on how the roles in therapeutic relationships are negotiated, contained or avoided.
The initial focus is on how two person relationships manifest with different presenting problems and diagnostic categories. The focus then expands to include an understanding of couples, families, groups and mental health teams. Three perennial therapeutic issues are then considered; a) assessment of the manifest and latent type of relationships between therapists and clients, b) how therapists invite and therapeutically contain necessary relationships and c) how and why therapists defensively deny and avoid engaging in certain types of relationships.