How can you address client transference and countertransference in peer support?

1 What is transference?

Transference is when the client projects their feelings, expectations, or fantasies onto the peer supporter, based on their past or present relationships with other people. For example, the client may see the peer supporter as a parent, a friend, a lover, or an authority figure, and act accordingly. Transference can be positive or negative, depending on whether the client feels admiration, gratitude, trust, or affection, or resentment, anger, fear, or distrust. Transference can also be realistic or unrealistic, depending on whether the client's perception matches the reality of the peer supporter's role and boundaries.

2 What is countertransference?

Countertransference is when the peer supporter projects their feelings, expectations, or fantasies onto the client, based on their own past or present relationships with other people. For example, the peer supporter may see the client as a sibling, a child, a partner, or a rival, and act accordingly. Countertransference can also be positive or negative, depending on whether the peer supporter feels empathy, compassion, respect, or admiration, or frustration, boredom, irritation, or contempt. Countertransference can also be realistic or unrealistic, depending on whether the peer supporter's perception matches the reality of the client's situation and needs.

3 Why are transference and countertransference important?

Transference and countertransference are important to consider when engaging in peer support, as they can significantly influence the rapport, trust, communication, and understanding between the peer supporter and the client. These phenomena can either motivate or discourage engagement, as well as support or challenge exploration and resolution of issues. Moreover, transference and countertransference can reinforce or alter patterns of behavior and coping for both the peer supporter and the client. Consequently, it is essential that both parties are aware of and manage their transference and countertransference in peer support.

4 How to recognize transference and countertransference?

Recognizing transference and countertransference can be difficult due to their subtlety and unconscious nature. However, there are some signs that may indicate their presence, such as intense or disproportionate emotional reactions, confusion or misunderstanding, idealization or devaluation, dependency or avoidance, and repetition or resistance. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to reflect on your feelings and thoughts by asking yourself questions about your relationship with the peer supporter or the client, such as what you are feeling and thinking, why you feel that way, how it relates to your past relationships, and how it affects your peer support relationship and goals.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?