Countertransference: Making the unconscious conscious

To promote awareness and discussion of countertransference, this chapter outlines the origins and triggers of countertransference, manifestation of countertransference by genetic counselors; and both positive and negative effects of countertransference on genetic counseling processes and outcomes. It discusses six general categories of life experiences that comprise potential sources of genetic counselor countertransference: family dynamics, developmental life processes, life vulnerabilities, cultural background, professional training and socialization, and contemporary issues. The chapter describes four general types of circumstances that are particularly common in triggering countertransference: patient characteristics; disease, disability, and loss; diversity issues; and challenging genetic counseling situations. In simple terms, the impact of countertransference can be adaptive, maladaptive or both. The key distinction between an adaptive or maladaptive response to countertransference is recognition and self-awareness. The chapter also presents strategies to help genetic counselors cultivate awareness and effective management of countertransference.