Compose a 2750 words assignment on the impact of transference and counter transference on the therapeutic relationship. Needs to be plagiarism free! More often than not, countertransference is a product of a therapist’s pent up unresolved issues such as personal frustration (Fischalini, 1995). Transference and countertransference undermine the therapeutic process, as both parties constantly have to deal with inappropriate feelings. Transference and countertransference encompass a mine of opportunities and invaluable information pertaining to the therapist, client, and supervisor. An analysis of the transference process is an opportunity to rectify or modify malfunctioned attitudes of people (Bordin, 1979).

In the situation of a supervisor-supervisee relationship, transference and countertransference may occur where a supervisee feels that his supervisor is too rigid or opinionated, which triggers feelings of low self-esteem. As a result, the supervisee may feel inadequate to best address future clients’ needs. Such a supervisee is unsure of their skills as a therapist whereby, in extreme situations, clients are able to detect the therapist’s uneasy predisposition. Clients high in neuroticism (emotionally unstable clients) or those suffering from severe psychological or personality disorders might take advantage of the situation by developing transference, as the therapist is not in charge of the situation (Gabbard, 1995). The consequence of countertransference in a therapist entails their inability to form a meaningful professional relationship with the client. The therapeutic process flourishes when therapists demarcate clear boundaries. This entails explaining to clients the nature of their relationship using ethical guidelines stipulated by the Code of Ethics as a guide.

Research indicates that therapists also have a high probability of developing an inclination to forming unprofessional relationships with their clients if they suffered abuse prior to becoming a therapist or if they were previously afflicted with substance abuse disorder (Barak & Lacross, 1975).&nbsp. &nbsp.