Countertransference and the Treatment of Trauma

— Written by Constance J. Dalenberg in 2000, 293 pages

— Review Written by Heather Gonzales, 2024

 Quick Review & Considerations: 

  • Book is based on a specific research that she. has done, as well as other literature and research material

  • Excellent examples are given throughout the book that are on point and absolutely add to the understanding of the material without distracting or losing the reader

  • Examples given show a high degree of respect for the trauma that individuals have experienced, do not exploit client stories when they are not necessary, or use the explicit details of other’s trauma to entertain or shock or sell more books. For example on pg. 72 the author indicates that content details to a “brutal and humiliating act” were deleted from the conversation. On pg. 58, the author does share parts of a brutal story- however, she only does this only once and it is to cause the reader to better feel and understand a real trauma countertransference example and the importance of being able to navigate one’s own responses to the true horrors clients do go through and share with counselors.

  • Chapter topics include countertransference (CT) and the inadequacy of language in trauma treatment, CT responses to anger and manipulation- which were 2 of my favorite chapters, plus chapters on Ct and shame, Ct and repetition compulsion, etc

  • Author is honest and vulnerable using her own mistakes and learning to make points and. show examples

  • Author is an excellent writer- content that could be dull or difficult to read was interesting and insightful

  • Despite being written in 2000, it is still very relevant -but it would be nice to have an updated edition that might address additional topics

 

Please Note:

Listing books here is not intended to indicate absolute agreement with all content, techniques, suggestions, word choices, or other work by the authors- but to indicate a large portion of information that was found helpful.  It is recommended that whatever you read, no matter who recommends it or writes it, that readers use critical thinking and that content is reviewed in a thoughtful, contemplative, and reflective manner.

List and comments reflect the individual opinions of Heather Gonzales and are written from the perspective of an adoptee, for those looking for resources for adoptees or adoptive families specifically. Lists are not necessarily a reflection of all staff or Encompass Adoptees as a whole.

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