Transference and

Counter-transference
 Transference
 A redirection of the client’s feelings for a
significant person to the counselor.
 Manifested as an erotic attraction (positive)
 It happens on an unconscious level – and can
be used to reveal unresolved conflicts the
counselee have with childhood figures.
Her ways are
like that of
He reminds
my only me of my first
sister… boyfriend…
 An analysis of the transference
can actually be the work that
needed to be done – the
counselor and the counselee to
recognize the transference
relationship and exploring the
relationship’s meaning.
 Counter-transference
 A redirection of the counselor’s
feelings toward a counselee.
 Can also be a therapeutic tool.
 The counselor’s projective
identifications toward the counselee.
 Constructive aspect of Counter-
transference: can be source of
information and insight about the
counselee.
 Destructive, anti-therapeutic effect
– blocking of feelings.
 Dealing with Counter-
transference
 Determined primarily by the
maturity and personal honesty of the
counselor.
 Should be dealt with internally -
with or without consultation/
supervision.
 Requires honest exploration of
the meanings of the counter-
transference for oneself - in
relation to unresolved issues,
emotional needs, significant
relationships, and one’s moral
and religious values.
 Very important in dealing with
counter-transference:
 Self-assessment – for appropriate
responses.
 Internal process – self-
understanding, maturity, moral
integrity.
The End