Brain science emerged at the same time that Relational Life Therapy became popular, and neuropsychologists were impressed with the limbic system activation and neural pathways that it created in the prefrontal cortex which allow rapid change in a clients insight and perspective.

RLT focuses on understanding and improving our relationships with ourselves and others, while traditional talk therapy typically centers on individual psychological concerns.

RLT views our early attachment experiences as crucial to understanding our current patterns of relating to others, while traditional talk therapy may not place as much emphasis on attachment theory, and other models may primarily focus on teaching attachment and not add the coaching necessary for creating new patterns for connection.

RLT often incorporates experiential techniques such as role-playing, empty chair work, and mindfulness exercises to help clients access, explore and process their emotions and relational patterns. Traditional talk therapy may rely more on discussion and exploration of thoughts and feelings, cognitively only.

RLT emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment and paying attention to the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship as they unfold in real-time. Traditional talk therapy may be more focused on exploring past experiences and their impact on the present.

RLT takes on a coaching role, providing guidance and feedback to the client in their exploration of relational patterns and dynamics, while traditional talk therapy often emphasizes self-exploration, with the therapist serving as a supportive listener and facilitator of the client’s own process of understanding themselves. The therapist in RLT will give specific techniques and exercises to help the client develop new relational skills, while in traditional talk therapy the therapist may help the client develop insight into patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to their difficulties.