Potential Sources of Countertransference Among Religious Therapists

Relational approaches to counseling emphasize the monitoring of countertransference responses as a crucial component in the therapeutic process. Six potential sources of countertransference are discussed that are specific to religious therapists and which may be easily overlooked. These responses are related to the therapist's identification with a community of faith, and they may have a detrimental impact on therapy if they are not monitored. A brief overview of the historical and contemporary understanding of the concept of countertransference is presented. Recommendations are offered for the effective management of these countertransference responses.