Question

Discuss how transference and countertransference act as problems during the closing process. Make sure to use examples of both.

Answer 1

While many therapists use transference as a technique for psychotherapeutic rehabilitation, there are problems that can arise because of transference. Some therapists may transfer their own feelings onto the client – a phenomenon known as countertransference. In the realm of the doctor-patient relationship, the patient may generally do anything the therapist asks, including sexual behavior.

Transference can become an especially sensitive issue if the therapist has a dual relationship with the patient. Therapists cannot always completely avoid social relationships with their patients. In these cases, it is likely that the therapist will have patients who experience transference reactions towards them.

Transference reactions can also develop during therapy even if the therapist does not have a dual relationship with his or her client. If transference does develop, it can cause the patient to experience difficulties with other patients and therapists even after the therapy has ended.

Furthermore, when a patient and therapist have a transference relationship, the patient could cease to look upon the therapist as a safe person to talk to. He or she might begin to withhold information during a session, and if the sessions do not go well, the therapist may not have the information he or she needs in order to help correct the problem.