Clinical implications of research on countertransference: science informing practice

This article presents a clinically oriented synthesis of research findings pertaining to countertransference (CT). Findings are organized around five therapy-relevant questions concerning the origins, triggers, manifestations, management, and effects of CT. To date, research has focused primarily on impediments posed by therapists' CT reactions and mechanisms for managing them. It is argued that future research needs to be directed toward better understanding how therapists can use CT to enhance their work with clients.