Psychiatr. praxi. 2011;12(2):80-84

Counter-transference during supervision in cognitive behavioral therapy

prof.MUDr.Ján Praško, CSc.^1,2,3,4, MUDr.Jana Vyskočilová³

¹ Klinika psychiatrie, LF a UP v Olomouci

² Fakultní nemocnice Olomouc

³ Psychiatrické centrum Praha

⁴ Centrum neuropsychiatrických studií, Praha

Many experts believe that transference and counter-transference analysis is not a part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and is peculiar

to psychodynamic psychotherapies. However, the attention paid to emotional and cognitive reactions to the patient or the supervised is

an essential component of CBT and its supervision, particularly in the case of supervision of work with challenging patients. Counter-transference

reaction can be observed in our behavior as well as our thinking, emotional experience and physical signs. Counter-transference

may stem from previous, inadequately processed supervisor’s experience which tends to translate into current relationships. It results in

behavior that can be one of avoidance (lack of sincerity, congruence) or compensatory (overinvolvement, competing, showing off). Selfreflection

or becoming aware of counter-transference in supervision aids in overcoming the counter-transference reaction and may be

crucial for creating a more real relationship and for more objective work both in therapy and supervision. Adequate self-reflection and

supervision of one’s own work are among the essential prerequisites for appropriate development of the supervisor’s competences.

Keywords: therapeutic relationship, supervision, counter-transference, schemes, cognitive behavioral therapy

Published: May 1, 2011  Show citation