TRANSFERENCE AND COUNTERTRANSFERENCE

Transference and Countertransference

Transference and Countertransference

Countertransference is a central concept within psychoanalytic literature, although definitions of this concept have varied in their specificity. Silvester (2000)observed that 'Freud equated countertransference with the way analysts' blind spots, complexes and inner resistance hamper their effective psychoanalytic functioning' (p.47). Thus, countertransference can be seen as an aspect of the therapist that can potentially limit their therapeutic endeavours (although if properly acknowledged and processed, it can of course also constitute a valuable therapeutic resource). Some psychoanalytic insiders have argued that psychoanalysis's traditional lack of attention to its countertransferential response to same-sex sexualities limits any possible benefit that may accrue to clients or therapists and therefore requires urgent attention(Nichols Schwartz 2006). This viewpoint finds support when we review the stances that psychoanalysis has taken to same-sex sexualities throughout the course of its history. 

Part of the process of psychotherapy, particularly psychodynamic therapy is based on what is called "transference." This concept has been explored elsewhere in this site and can be searched for on Mental Help Net. Transference refers to the idea that our reactions to people in the present are shaped by past relationships. In other words, the ways in which we were treated in the past, such as by parents, gets repeated in the present because those are the expectations that we have. (Perlman 2000)

As in the case, in order to treat the lesbian client who desires to embrace the change process, it is important to view her individually and to assess her as a whole person. Most importantly, the therapist must assess her personality organization. For example, does she have the separation-individuation conflicts of a borderline, the fragile self-esteem of a narcissist, or the attachment fears of a schizoid? Understanding the core conflicts will provide the therapist with the meaning behind her behaviors. With this information, it is possible to proceed utilizing appropriate interventions for this particular client. (Silvester 2000)

Also important to notice is the degree of the client's compulsive or obsessive feelings, thoughts and behaviors. The higher the compulsivity, the more anxiety and/or depression may surface as the client begins to separate from her lesbian partner or chooses to not "act out" their same-sex emotional attractions. This is often the most difficult part of treatment and strongly resembles the treatment required with a person struggling with substance addiction.

The gender of the therapist is critical; however, the lesbian client typically handles that concern herself, as her emotional attraction guides her to a woman therapist ...