Withdrawal Ruptures

Other types of alliance ruptures may be more subtle and difficult to detect. It's not unusual in this type of situation for therapists to feel  stuck or confused,  and to have difficulty putting their fingers on what is going on. More subtle impasses of this type may indicate that what we call a withdrawal rupture is taking place. In a withdrawal rupture, client's may have difficulty fully recognizing their own sense of frustration or disappointment. Or they may be aware of their concerns but have difficulty expressing them to the therapist because of concerns about disapproval, retaliation or abandonment. Clients may also have concerns about hurting the therapist and feel they need to protect him or her.