Which term is used when the therapist's own emotional responses affect the therapy process?

The term that describes the therapist's own emotional responses impacting the therapy process is countertransference. This phenomenon occurs when a therapist begins to project their own feelings, experiences, or emotional reactions onto the client. For instance, if a therapist has unresolved issues related to their personal history that resonate with the client’s situation, this can unintentionally influence their responses, interactions, and overall therapeutic approach.

Understanding countertransference is crucial because it can affect the therapeutic relationship and the effectiveness of the therapy. It can lead to biased interpretations of the client's behavior or feelings if left unaddressed. Therapists must remain vigilant to their emotional states and seek supervision or consultation when they recognize that their own feelings might be interfering with the therapy.

In contrast, transference refers to the client's emotional projections onto the therapist, while projection is a defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unacceptable thoughts or feelings onto others. Reactivity generally pertains to an emotional response that may arise in a therapeutic environment but does not specifically highlight the therapist’s emotional involvement as countertransference does.