The Power of Countertransference: Innovations in Analytic Technique

by Karen J. Maroda

The author advocates a change in basic psychoanalytic technique in order to enhance the psychoanalytic method. Expands the key elements of transference and resistance to acknowledge that these phenomena are expressed not only by patientsbut also by their therapists. Thus, psychoanalytic treatment is viewed as mutual and interpersonal, and the emotional responses of the therapist are viewed as an integral part of the process rather than something to be stifled, overcome or analyzed away.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Psychoanalysis, School

196 pages, Hardcover

First published August 15, 1991

Reviews

[anarcho · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contains in-depth discussions on disclosure of not only countertransference, but also affect vs. content, personal opinions and values, and feelings about clients, illustrated by a few well-chosen case studies. Maroda also takes a frank look at "taboo" feelings such as hatred and envy of clients, and how they can be used and subsequently neutralised or integrated into the therapeutic relationship.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though perhaps drawn out longer than necessary at some parts, Maroda dives into what has previously been considered quite controversial in the therapeutic relationship, which is disclosing the clinician’s own feelings about their patient or the dynamics between them. She lays out a framework of techniques to ethically do so in a variety of emotional contexts using examples from both research and her own clinical experience. She recounts what she feels were her own failures with certain past clients for trying to follow the analytic teachings too closely and avoiding disclosure of any countertransference occurring, and reading through this has solidified my thoughts on the benefits of disclosing countertransference in appropriate times to strengthen the interpersonal relationship built between therapist and patient.

[Aya · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is clear and easy to read, and has some interesting points. If you are interested in a summary of unorthodox, 'modern' clinical setting examples of countertransference, this is a good place to start. The book gets a bit repetitive at times, and could be even shorter than it already is.

It's definitely aimed at clinical practitioners, but it's still fun to read for hobbyists like myself. It's more of a contemporary clinical summary than a theory heavy account, and does not give for example an in depth historical overview of the arguments around (and against) countertransference that lead up to the state of psychoanalytic debates of 90s.

[Amy Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily the most insightful and in depth exploration of countertransference I have ever read. Beyond valuable.

[Robert]

This is one of the best books out there for therapists trained in relational models. It is highly progressive and considered a bit unorthodox, but honestly one of the most interesting and engaging examinations of the counseling experience. I read it in my graduate studies and now re-reading to better apply it with my clients.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks, Shelley!