What does transference refer to in a therapeutic context?

Transference refers to the phenomenon where a patient projects their feelings, attitudes, and experiences from past relationships onto the therapist. This process allows the patient to unconsciously replicate emotions and dynamics from significant figures in their life, such as parents or close friends, onto the therapist within the therapy setting.

In this context, the patient's feelings about the therapist can encompass a wide range of emotions, including affection, anger, confusion, or dependency. Understanding these feelings is critical, as they can provide valuable insights into the patient's underlying issues and can be explored to facilitate personal growth and healing during therapy sessions.

This concept plays a central role in psychodynamic therapy, where the relationship between the patient and therapist serves as a window into the patient's relational patterns. By analyzing transference, therapists can help patients understand their emotional responses and work through unresolved conflicts, making it a vital aspect of the therapeutic process.