Counter-Transference (Collection: Mental Health )

First read the definition of Transference and then come back here. The term "transference" always refers to the patient's transfer of emotional energy from an older relationship to a newer one (such as a therapist). Counter-Transference occurs when a therapist transfers his or her emotional energy from an older relationship to a patient. For example, Classical Counter-Transference is occurring if a therapist cannot treat a molester because he or she was him or herself molested and cannot separate his or her anger at being victimized from the patient in front of him or her (who did not victimize the therapist). More commonly, the term counter-transference is used to describe situations where a therapist fails to keep appropriate emotional distance from the patient. So you might use the term counter transference to describe a therapist who feels hopeless and paralyzed when working with a depressed person, or a therapist who falls in love with a patient (or who seduces a patient). Counter-Transference in any form is undesirable in the therapeutic relationship as it does not help (and often hurts) the patient. Therapists have an ethical (and sometimes legal) responsibility to be aware of counter-transference issues and to see counsel or help if they become overwhelming.

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