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Relational perspectives regarding countertransference in group and trauma
1National Group Therapy Institute, The Washington School of Psychiatry, Washington, DC, USA. rubenfel@erols.com
International Journal of Group Psychotherapy
|April 23, 2005
Summary
This study explores relational/constructivist therapy, viewing countertransference as a mutual influence. It emphasizes social construction, individual initiative, and meaning-making in therapy, especially for trauma.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychotherapy
- Social Constructionism
Background:
- Contemporary trends in psychotherapy.
- Theories of countertransference and co-transference.
- Intersubjective influence in therapeutic relationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a relational/constructivist perspective on therapy.
- To explore mutual intersubjective influence in countertransference.
- To highlight meaning-making and individuality in therapeutic processes, including trauma work.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical exploration of relational/constructivist concepts.
- Application of these concepts to clinical examples.
- Focus on social construction of reality and individual agency.
Main Results:
- Countertransference and co-transference are viewed as products of mutual intersubjective influence.
- Therapy is framed as a process of meaning-making.
- Recognition of the irreducible individuality and initiative of both therapist and clients.
Conclusions:
- A relational/constructivist approach offers a nuanced understanding of therapeutic dynamics.
- This perspective is particularly relevant for understanding and working with trauma.
- It emphasizes the collaborative and subjective nature of therapeutic change.