Connecting Inner Worlds: The Role of the Therapist’s Heart in Countertransference
Information
Date & Time
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Location
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Onsite Wellness House, Silo Studios
1610 54th Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37209
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able to:
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Identify at least three common signs of countertransference in clinical practice that may arise from a therapist’s emotional responses during sessions.
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Analyze the impact of a therapist's unmanaged countertransference on the therapeutic alliance and client outcomes through case study examples.
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Apply two specific self-reflection and mindfulness techniques to recognize and manage personal emotional responses that contribute to countertransference in therapy.
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Demonstrate the ability to conceptualize countertransference awareness as a tool for enhanced therapeutic effectiveness.
Description
This presentation explores the deep emotional interplay between therapist and client that shapes the therapeutic alliance. Attendees will gain insight into how a therapist’s own emotional responses—often unconscious—can influence the therapeutic process, either enhancing or hindering client outcomes. The session will emphasize the importance of self-awareness and emotional attunement in managing countertransference, offering practical strategies for therapists to maintain professional boundaries while utilizing their emotional experiences to foster healing connections. This presentation is ideal for clinicians seeking to deepen their understanding of the nuanced dynamics in therapeutic relationships.
Target Audience
- Counselor
- Marriage & Family Therapist
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Substance Use Disorder Professionals
Presenters
Mike found his passion for helping others through his own healing journey. He began his career supporting adults with complex trauma, PTSD, and addictions. Mike is a Florida Certified Addiction Counselor and an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor through the IC&RC. He is also a nationally Certified Trauma Professional and a NARM® Master Practitioner, having assisted in teaching NARM® principles for working with complex trauma to professionals around the world and consulting on their application to adolescent treatment.
Mike currently serves as Chief Clinical Officer for Family First Adolescent Services, a premier residential treatment center in South Florida. He uses his extensive training in trauma, somatic psychology, interpersonal neurobiology, and addiction treatment to develop individual, group, and family programming for clients and families. Additionally, Mike is a national speaker, educator, and consultant on developmental trauma, addiction, and adolescent treatment.
Financially Sponsored By
- Family First Adolescent Services