| The present study is a synthesis of the bodies of literature on erotic transference and countertransference and literature from a relationally oriented theoretical perspective. The essence of this work is to explore in greater depth the impact of relational concepts, taking seriously the intersubjective co-authoring of all aspects of the therapeutic relationship, on erotic transference and countertransference dynamics. Discussed are the clinical contributions and challenges the intersubjective approach of relational theory presents in the recognition, conceptualization and working through of erotic feelings, not only for therapists practicing from this model, but for therapists working across different analytical orientations.;It is proposed that relational theory may expand on the historically popular notion of the erotic manifesting for primarily defensive purposes and as an oedipal repetition indicating a need to work through issues around desiring an unavailable other, to include these formulations, as well as offering clinicians other conceptualizations and formulations which represent the multiple meanings of erotic dynamics as they manifest in each unique therapeutic pairing. In other words, an intersubjectively articulated vision of why and how erotic dynamics in treatment can be therapeutically transformative. Possibilities include the erotic as a representation of a patient's agency and a relationally inspired vehicle through which the intersubjective developmental process of mutual recognition can occur. The clinician is presented with the challenge of acknowledging overt or covert signs of the erotic and conceptualizing these dynamics within a two-person model, as opposed to not addressing erotic feelings or considering the erotic within a frame that places the origination of erotic feelings solely with the patient. A consideration of the therapeutic potential of judicious erotic countertransference disclosure is also explored using more current relational literature and the conditions under which such disclosure might occur are examined and articulated. |
