Identifying the origins of countertransference using the Core Conflictual Relationship Theme method: A multiple case...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychotherapy Research
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Measuring countertransference (CT) has historically presented significant challenges in psychoanalytic research and practice.
• Understanding the origins of CT is crucial for effective therapeutic interventions and training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utility of the Core Conflictual Relationship Theme (CCRT) method for assessing therapist countertransference (CT).
• To investigate the link between therapists' personal interpersonal wishes and their manifestation in clinical work with patients.

Main Methods:

• Two studies utilized the Relationship Anecdote Paradigm and the CCRT method.
• Study 1 examined the correspondence between a therapist's personal wishes and her patients' transference patterns.
• Study 2 analyzed a therapist's sessions to identify how her interpersonal wishes appeared in clinical interactions.

Main Results:

• Therapists' personal interpersonal wishes were identifiable through projective interviews.
• These wishes showed similarity, though not identity, to wishes expressed in the therapist's work with patients.
• Evidence indicated both chronic and patient-specific interpersonal wishes were present.

Conclusions:

• Therapists' countertransference appears to originate from their own interpersonal wishes.
• The CCRT method shows promise as a tool for identifying and studying CT in research, clinical practice, and supervision.