ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the complex dynamics from the therapist’s perspective when working with refugee clients. It describes that a collection of thoughts and feelings expressed in psychotherapeutic and supervisory work from different types of refugee mental health workers. The chapter attempts to understand further the therapeutic relationship by focusing on the therapist’s psychological response to the client. It outlines some of the common themes reported by refugees, but the aim is to focus on the therapist’s countertransference feelings. Therapeutic work with refugee clients is extremely rewarding, but painful, especially to those who have been through similar experiences. Most therapists are chosen to work with refugees because they speak the language or come from the same cultural or racial background and/or have had experiences that resonate with those of the client. Of course, the supervisor also needs to be skilled and have experience in working with refugees.
