Mapping transference: the key to analytic CAT

This workshop offers a chance to explore a distinctively CAT approach to the dynamics and therapeutic uses of transference and countertransference.  Its focus is on the push and pull of the feelings and emotional roles in the interpersonal relationship and intersubjective spaces within and between client and therapist.  These are often hard to notice, name and negotiate in session and need their own allocated mapping time and space in supervision. The temptations are: to bypass thinking about them; give them lipservice only; or rush to formulation and resolution too quickly.  We propose a three stage model to transference dynamics:

• Pre-transference intimations and anticipations of something going on

• In transference feelings in the air between us and around us (pushing and pulling for responses) which cause anxiety and a call for help in hovering and shimmering with them long enough to be able to find meanings, words and communications for them