Managing Countertransference with Patients

Countertransference, a therapist’s emotional and cognitive reactions to a patient, is now recognized as a phenomenon that can arise in any form of psychotherapy. There are skills a therapist can develop that can assist them in navigating thoughts and feelings that arise when working with a patient. This article identifies how countertransference can manifest in therapy, the factors that can assist therapists in navigating it successfully, and how it can be addressed with patients. Copyright 2025.

After reading the CE Corner article, you will be asked to complete a "Commitment-to-Change" (CTC) exercise. The CTC exercise is designed to help facilitate the translation of your learning into practice. Completion of the CTC is required prior to the completion of the CE Test based on the APA Monitor CE Corner article.

This product is not included in the APA Unlimited CE program.

New York state psychologists: This program is not currently in compliance with the unique requirements imposed by the New York State Board of Education for New York licensed psychologists CE.

• Define countertransference and describe how it may show up during therapy.
• Explain how to identify countertransference and what factors prepare therapists to navigate it successfully.
• Discuss when and how to address countertransference with patients, including when to seek consultation from a peer or supervisor.

Zara Abrams