Mapping transference in supervision: the key to analytic CAT

This workshop offers a chance to explore a distinctively CAT approach to the dynamics and therapeutic uses of transference and countertransference.  Its focus is on the push and pull of the emotions in the interpersonal relationship between client and therapist.  These are often hard to notice, name and negotiate in session and need their own space in supervision. The temptations are: to bypass thinking about them; give them lipservice only; or rush to formulation and resolution too quickly.  Mapping can help stay long enough with the uncertainty and push and pull of the  pre-transfence emotions (that are 'in the air between us') to make sense and good use of them.  

Participants will work with a transference checklist of sample maps and use these to map out their own unique experience. The workshop concludes with a provisional mapping of and writing to our own 'counter-transference driven' therapist's style.  

This workshop will be of value to both those who feel this is a neglected area of their practice and those who feel familiar with the central role of transference in CAT but would like to refresh and stretch their work in supervision from a relational and psychodynamic point of view.  

Steve Potter has been using pen and paper conversations to enhance his use of CAT's conceptual tools for three decades. He uses bits of mapping and writing in voice focused ways to help him work through the unformulated emotions coming up in therapy.  He feels we have not done enough to claim a distinctive CAT approach to the important issue of transference as a beneficial and harmful (if neglected or over egged element in therapy.  He is a past chair of ACAT, the first chair of ICATA, is a life member of ACAT and co editor of the International CAT journal. He has taught on all the courses in the UK and many internationally and has directed introductory, practitioner and psychotherapist training. He is the author of two books on CAT and has contributed a number of chapters and articles.  He is based in East London.