Abstract
In the present study, the theoretical framework, basic concepts, application and advantages of the Relational Cyclical Model in psychological counselling are discussed. The Relational Cyclical Model aims to make sense of the relational worlds of individuals with a cyclical and contextual perspective and offers a new perspective on psychological counselling processes. In the theoretical framework, the connections of the model with psychodynamic theories, attachment theory and systemic approach are explained. It is emphasised how individuals’ past experiences and contextual factors shape their current relational patterns. Basic concepts include relationality and circularity. How the model helps individuals to recognise and transform their repetitive relational patterns is discussed. In terms of its application in psychotherapy, the model’s interventions for clients to develop awareness and insight into relationship dynamics are examined. In addition, the contributions of the model to help clients identify problematic relationship cycles and develop healthier relationship dynamics are evaluated. Among the advantages of the model is that it focuses on the relational dynamics of the clients and includes contextual factors. The present study evaluates the contributions of the Relational Cyclical Model to psychological counselling by presenting its theoretical and practical aspects. The evaluation of the model is important as it provides psychological counsellors with a comprehensive perspective on the process of making sense of and changing clients’ complex relationship patterns. Considering the relational context in psychological counselling is also important in terms of helping clients develop deeper insights and consciously transform their relational cycles. In this context, the present study offers both theoretical richness and important practical implications for psychological counsellors.