ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author conducted an in-depth analysis of the use of countertransference in Jungian analysis. According to Jung, one of the main focal points of Jungian analysis is the use of countertransference. Similar to the Freudian view, the premise of Jungian analysis is the analysis and interpretation of the patient’s transference. When combined with the analyst’s countertransference experience, we see the interaction that takes place between the patient and analyst, or the push and pull dynamic between the transference and countertransference responses of the therapeutic dyad. As a way of explaining this phenomenon, the author examined Jung’s concept of psychic systems and the interaction that takes place between them. Since Jung considered every person their own independent psychic system, he viewed the reciprocal conscious and unconscious interaction between psychic systems (i.e., the patient and analyst) as an intricate part of treatment as most, if not all, projections illicit a counter projection. Although Jung viewed countertransference as an intricate part of treatment, he warned against the potential “psychic infection” that could take place and the need for the analysis of the analyst. Jung warned of how the “occupational hazard” brought on by a “psychic infection” could interfere with the course of treatment. The author also reviewed the benefits of the analyst’s personal analysis and how a greater understanding of themselves could result in the understanding of their patients at a more profound level. In addition, the author gives a thorough description of the archetypal dimensions and manifestations of countertransference while also reviewing Jung’s understanding of the unconscious, more specifically, understanding how the personal and collective unconscious affect countertransference responses and manifestations.
