Abstract
This article examines the sources of relational difficulties inherent in clinical work with forensic clients. Left alone,
common countertransference feelings, responses, and defense mechanisms can disrupt and ultimately derail treatment. Concepts
relating to the management of countertransference offer a path with which to integrate therapists’ affective reactions as
a mechanism of therapy. A relational framework utilizing the affective dynamics between client and therapist to develop and
promote treatment goals is introduced and the process of formulating it is described. Practice examples are offered.
common countertransference feelings, responses, and defense mechanisms can disrupt and ultimately derail treatment. Concepts
relating to the management of countertransference offer a path with which to integrate therapists’ affective reactions as
a mechanism of therapy. A relational framework utilizing the affective dynamics between client and therapist to develop and
promote treatment goals is introduced and the process of formulating it is described. Practice examples are offered.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-11
- DOI 10.1007/s10615-011-0368-8
- Authors
- Debra Benveniste, 1039 North Main Street, PO Box 172, Dayville, CT 06241, USA
- Journal Clinical Social Work Journal
- Online ISSN 1573-3343
- Print ISSN 0091-1674