Therapist anger in group psychotherapy

Countertransference anger serves as a defense against the experience of shame, which occurs when therapists fail to live up to jointly created idealized expectations. The author describes ways of changing these expectations in order to reduce the transference-countertransference resonance, which is based on narcissistic needs. The author distinguishes countertransference anger (which should not be disclosed to group members) from realistic therapist anger, which has therapeutic value. Realistic anger can be used as a therapeutic tool to dispel distortions, provide an interpersonal connection, help members trust the reality of the situation, and provide a balance of good and bad between the members and therapists.