Abstract

The concept of countertransference is deeply rooted in psychoanalytic work and in general psychodynamic understanding of patients, but we still lack an unequivocal definition. Initially, countertransference was discussed in the context of analytical work with neurotic patients. Through psychodynamic work with difficult patients, among which those with psychosis, the importance of recognizing the intense countertransference feelings was observed as well as their use as a tool for better understanding the inner world of the patient. Setting of a hospital ward further complicates countertransference issues in all members of the therapy team. The paper will present theoretical bases for understanding countertransference and some specific phenomena that occur in the hospital ward setting Several clinical examples are also presented.