Psychoanalytic theories Essay Example

Psychoanalytic theories Essay Example Psychoanalytic theories Paper Psychoanalytic theories Paper Countertransference is a complex term that describes the constellation of the therapist’s reactions to the patient. Initially, Freud described this phenomenon and conceptualized it as the transference of the therapist’s unresolved conflicts onto the patient (Slipp, 1999). According to his view and the emphasis he placed on the therapist’s neutrality, he considered countertransference a negative reaction which may hinder the therapeutic process (Gelso, 2001). Later psychoanalytic theories, however, including object relations theory, moved their focus from the intrapsychic to the interpersonal arena and suggested that countertransference originates from the interaction between therapist and patient, encompassing both the patient’s projections and the therapist’s reactions (Slipp, 1999). With this new conceptualization, countertransference emerged as a significant therapeutic parameter with both positive and negative aspects. Research has shown that unmanaged countertransference feelings may be acted out, thus having a detrimental effect on the outcome of therapy, even leading to early termination. In contrast, when countertranference is recognized and worked through, it can be useful for therapy (Heyes, 2007). Obtaining awareness of these reactions is a prerequisite for preventing them from contaminating the therapeutic alliance and the whole treatment process. Given that countertransference is partly constructed by the patient’s undesired projections, its detection may widen the therapist’s understanding of the patient’s inner world. In addition, the therapist’s reactions can be viewed as a model for the reactions of the significant others towards the patient in real life and his associated interpersonal difficulties. This is especially important in the case of personality disorders, where maladaptive patterns of interactions are perpetuated and are the source of major suffering. Treating these patients commonly triggers strong countertransference feelings, whose resolution may provide useful insight in those patients’ damaged psyche. References Slipp, S. (1999) Countertransference issues in psychiatric treatment. Washington D. C.. American Psychiatric Press. Gelso, C. Hayes, J. (2001). Countertransference management. Psychotherapy, Vol 38 (4), 418-422. Hayes, J. A. , Yeh, Y. J. % Eisenberg, A. (2007). Good grief and not-so-good grief: Countertransference in bereavement therapy. J Clin Psychol, Vol 63, 345-355.