Mouse, thanks for this link. It's really extensive. I read a little bit and hope to do more later.

In the section on countertransference, it not only talked about transference and countertransference, but something called "reversed transference" which I had not heard of before. Here is an excerpt that contrasts transference to reversed transference, which are both experienced by the client (wherease countertransference is something the therapist experiences).

'An analyst giving a transference interpretation says, schematically: "It is not I toward whom your feelings are directed; you really mean your father." But there are many patients who know about transference and defend themselves against emerging emotional excitement by referring to its transference nature. In such instances the "reversed transference interpretation" is necessary; "You are aroused at this moment not about your father but about me"'

A lot of times here on PC people write that such and such was transference (about my parent, my mate, etc.), suggesting it was not about the interaction with the therapist at all. And this is certainly sometimes true. But sometimes the feelings and behaviors in therapy really are about the relationship with the therapist. And clients apparently guard against this by dismissively saying it's not real, it's just transference. I love how the therapist in this example spots that and says, "it's about me!" Yep, sometimes it is indeed about the therapist and I think it can be helpful and even healing to acknowledge that instead of defending against it with the transference label. I've felt this a long time, but never seen it mentioned in psychology readings.

I'm looking forward to exploring this site more.