Posted by deirdrehbrt on October 9, 2003, at 22:09:03
In reply to Ok, a bit of hope., posted by Dinah on October 9, 2003, at 20:00:43
I suppose that there is some hope. First, some therapies, like psychodynamic, specifically use transference as a tool. Like anything powerful, if it can be used and manipulated, it remains powerful, but is also a tool. I think that if a therapist is properly trained, the affection of a client is nothing to be feared.
Even in the case of an abuse survivor, realizing that she can have strong feelings for an authority figure, and that this authority figure will not take advantage of her, this can be an incredible realization and healing experience for the survivor.
I am a survivor. I haven't had the opportunity to experience strong or sexual transference. Perhaps I am still too distanced from my feelings. I can certainly state though, that I am an adult. I have entered therapy with the realization that an emotional or sexual relationship will not happen. My fantasies would remain fantasies. If my therapist thought them improper, I would expect her or him to tell me so, and if they could not be reigned in then that would be the time to move on. Fellings alone though, are the things that we all have, and need to treat responsibly.
Hoping I'm not way off base :-)
Dee.
poster:deirdrehbrt
thread:266267
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20030925/msgs/267568.html