Religion and the psychotherapeutic relationship. Transferential and countertransferential dimensions.
The salience of religion in society and health care has received increased attention. Recent developments in psychiatry reflect a broader view of religion that includes an appreciation of its adaptive and maladaptive dimensions. An examination of religious countertransferential and transferential reactions provides a framework for examining religious themes. Case examples illustrate the following critical factors that increase therapists' skill in working with religious themes: 1) monitoring the therapist's own attitude toward religious content, 2) attending to religious content, 3) seeking consultation, and 4) using religious content in interpretations.
Abernethy
A D
AD
Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York 14642, USA. asay@troi.cc.rochester.edu
Lancia
J J
JJ
D000328:Adult; D003379:Countertransference; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012069:Religion and Psychology; D014167:Transference, Psychology