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Transference and countertransference in therapy with lesbian patients
Karine J Igartua1, Pascale Des Rosiers
1a Department of Psychiatry , McGill University, University Sexual Identity Centre (M.U.S.I.C.) , Montreal , Canada.
Journal of Lesbian Studies
|May 14, 2014
Summary
Sexual orientation significantly impacts therapy, influencing how lesbian patients perceive their therapists and how therapists experience countertransference. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective therapeutic relationships.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychotherapy
- Sociology
Background:
- Sexual orientation is a key factor in relationship perception and therapeutic interactions.
- Existing cross-cultural therapy literature provides a framework for analysis.
- Therapeutic relationships are complex and influenced by multiple patient and therapist factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how lesbian patients' transferences are affected by perceived therapist sexual orientation.
- To examine how therapists' countertransferences vary based on their own sexual orientation.
- To understand the role of sexual orientation in psychotherapy dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a framework from cross-cultural therapy literature.
- Conducted dialogues with heterosexual and lesbian therapists.
- Included therapists from diverse mental health and LGBTQ+-identified settings.
Main Results:
- Lesbian patients' transferences are shaped by their perceptions of therapists' sexual orientations.
- Therapists' countertransferences differ based on their own sexual orientations.
- Sexual orientation influences the therapeutic process for both patients and therapists.
Conclusions:
- Sexual orientation is a critical element in understanding transference and countertransference.
- Therapists' self-awareness regarding sexual orientation is vital for effective practice.
- Further research into sexual orientation's impact on therapy is warranted.
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