Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes

1039-What to Do When You Love Your Therapist

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Understanding Transference

  • Transference is when a client projects feelings onto their therapist, often reflecting unmet needs or emotional experiences from other relationships.
  • It's common to develop strong feelings for a therapist, especially if they provide safety, validation, and emotional support.

    • Therapeutic Relationships as Safe Spaces

    • Therapists often provide one of the first healthy, secure relationships for clients, leading to feelings of attachment.
    • The feeling of security and validation in therapy can be a source of comfort, which might cause clients to think about their therapist outside of sessions.

      • Recognizing Dependency

      • Continuously thinking about your therapist or watching their videos might signal emotional dependency.
      • It is essential to differentiate between the therapist’s tools and personal presence in providing support.

        • Addressing the Issue in Therapy

        • Clients are encouraged to discuss feelings of attachment with their therapist to work through them.
        • If emotional support from the therapist is lacking, it’s crucial to communicate these needs and seek a solution.

          • Impact on Romantic Relationships

          • Feelings towards the therapist may arise due to unmet emotional needs in a primary relationship, such as a spouse.
          • Exploring how the therapist meets emotional needs can help clients work towards fostering similar feelings of safety and validation with their partner.

            • Managing Therapy Termination

            • Ending therapy can be difficult for clients who feel strongly attached to their therapist.
            • Gradual termination, where sessions decrease in frequency, helps clients adjust to applying therapeutic tools independently while maintaining the option of returning if needed.


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              Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipesBy Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes
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