Exploring Ethical Considerations of Transference and Countertransference

Key Learning Objectives: 

1. Describe Examples of Transference and Countertransference: Participants will learn to identify different forms of transference (e.g., romantic, parental, anger) and countertransference (e.g., subjective, objective) in therapeutic settings. This will help in recognizing these dynamics as they arise during treatment.

2. Identify Clinical Practice Situations Reflecting Transference and Countertransference: The training will provide real-world examples and case studies to illustrate how transference and countertransference can manifest in practice. Scenarios like a client projecting parental feelings onto a therapist or a therapist becoming overprotective are explored.

3. Apply Ethical and Clinical Recommendations: Participants will learn strategies for managing these dynamics, including self-reflection, supervision, and maintaining professional boundaries. Ethical principles like maintaining professional boundaries and addressing conflicts of interest are emphasized.

Course admission requirements:

Minimum of a Master's Degree in a mental health or related field; or be a student in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. In Low- and Middle-Income Countries, a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field is required.

MEET THE PRESENTER

DIANE BIGLER, LCSW, LSCSW

Diane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas. She has over 20 years of experience in the fields of psychology, social work and mental health. Diane was an Adjunct Professor of Social Work at The University of Kansas, School of Social Welfare, for over 10 years. She obtained her master's degree in Social Work from KU in 2006, with clinical concentrations in Children & Families and Mental Health. Diane taught classes in the Clinical Master's program, which included: Clinical Social Work Practice, Loss and Grief, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Family Therapy, Advanced Standing Practice, and Mental Health & Psychopathology. Diane was also a practicum Field Instructor, Field Liaison and Community Education trainer for the School of Social Welfare. Diane has facilitated hundreds of trainings to mental health professionals, physicians and nurses, teachers, police officers, business personnel, and local City Council members. Diane enjoys the creativity that comes with envisioning and designing trainings, and aims to provide trainings that are informative, engaging and skill-building. She has customized and facilitated leadership and corporate trainings to EAP clients on wellness and business topics.