ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the ways that therapists and clients expand their various versions of self (or the “characters” they play) in session. As therapists listen to their clients, the clients observe themselves and discover myriad versions of who they can be. Meanwhile, in turn, therapists become “characters” by how clients listen to them. They embody people from their clients’ past—the trailing edge of their transference—and also become characters born of their clients’ hope—the leading edge of their transference. At the same time, therapists discover that these characters are authentic (though perhaps unfamiliar) versions of themselves. Clinical illustrations are used to explore how psychotherapy treatments can be seen as a rehearsal for a dynamic, creative, and liberated life, for both client and therapist.
