[Counter-transference in eating disorder treatment:a systematic review]

To identify counter-transference occurrences and causes in therapists treating patients with eating disorders, and to present suggested solutions to overcome counter-transference's negative aspects and to enhance treatment quality.

Using the major health science and psychology databases, we have identified studies dealing with counter-transference in eating disorder treatment.

Many counter-transference occurrences are identified. It seems that therapists often feel negative affects while treating patients with eating disorders. Counter transference seems to be affected by factors related to both the disorder and to the patient and therapist. Further, negative counter-transference can lead to consequences interfering with proper conduct of treatment. The main solutions identified to deal with counter-transference are supervision, consulting with colleagues, and teamwork.

Many factors involved in counter-transference seem hardly modifiable;hence it is important to implement efficient solutions allowing overcoming its negative aspects. Moreover, few empirical studies have focused on counter-transference in eating disorder treatment. That research field is highly pertinent but very rarely exploited, and it deserves the scientific community's attention.