Discussion Questions
Chapter 5: Individual Treatment
1. What principles are involved in the formation and continuation of a therapeutic
alliance?
2. How does transference become apparent in a counseling relationship? In other words-
how do you recognize if a client is having transference issues with you?
3. Think about some aspect of a person that you have a strong reaction to, either positive
or negative. Describe those characteristics that you have a reaction to. Imagine how you
react in your thoughts, feelings, and behavior toward that person. How might the
reactions you imagined play into countertransference issues in your professional
relationship with that individual? What do you need to be aware in order to moderate
your own reactions to that particular individual?
4. What are the differences and similarities between cognitive, behavioral, and
interpersonal counseling? How would a counselor’s interaction with a client differ
5. What are some benefits of individual therapy? Group therapy?
6. A client reminds you of someone you had a poor experience with. Assuming you cannot
transfer them, what are some strategies you can incorporate to hold them in
unconditional positive regard?