Individual Transference Vs Group Countertransference

There are variations of countertransference that occur during group processes, when addressing individual transference vs. Group transference. From the therapist’s perspective, transference is shaped by different molds. From an individual standpoint, countertransference can be brought on by identification with facets of an individual's life, personality, future goals or in connection as a reminder of someone else. This can be a doubled edged sword when engaging an individual in therapy, as it can lead to building a positive bond based on respect or it may lead a therapist down a path of resistance when addressing issues that may present to be too difficult for the client. In either case, counter transference can be viewed and utilized as
Several mediums for counter transference must be attended to. Not only must a therapist pay attention to their own particular issues with transference, they must also be aware of transference that may be experienced by others participating in the group. This is can be a tool utilized by the therapist, as a means of generating group participation and/or expanding upon the subject at hand to enhance the overall therapeutic value to the group’s subject. Countertransference among groups can inspire the therapeutic process to change midstream, through offering feelings of transference; group participants are able to identify feeling, barriers and strengths of their own while remaining engaged in challenging others to do the
As group dynamics shift, whether by increasing commonalities, or through increasing differences, transference becomes the mode by which groups build or fail. As in the same with levels of participation, those who are less likely to participate can be influenced by those who freely participate, as well as being utilized by the therapist as an impartial party. It can be interesting to see the amounts of influence therapist may have on participants, but it appears true gains are made through the influence of peers. When peers begin to act as mutual beneficiaries of one another, this ensures participation from each member as well as members internalizing data from those around