Attraction in the Therapy Room
Attraction in the Therapy Room is designed for clinical therapy professionals, but peers and recovery specialists may also find it beneficial. This workshop addresses the complexities of attraction in therapeutic settings, highlighting both the comfort and discomfort that can arise when a client expresses feelings and when a therapist feels attraction towards a client. We will explore ethical considerations surrounding sexual and romantic attraction and non-professional relationships, including real-world examples of board complaints and strategies for establishing healthy boundaries.
Participants will learn about the Split Attraction Model, which clarifies that attraction can take various forms beyond sexual interest, helping to contextualize these experiences within therapy. The session will also cover concepts of transference and countertransference, examining what influences these dynamics and the various types that can emerge. This knowledge will aid therapists in recognizing and processing attraction in the therapy room while maintaining professional integrity. We will address the when and how of transferring a client, providing practical strategies for effectively managing these situations with confidence and professionalism. And finally, we will explore effective ways to discuss attraction, transference, and countertransference in supervision, ensuring that therapists are supported in navigating these complex issues.
Training Categories: Intermediate, Ethics, Boundaries, Professionalism | Clinical
Speakers
After earning her bachelor's degree from Albright College and her master's degree from Chestnut Hill College, Lori began her career as a therapist at a large non-profit organization in Philadelphia. Over the course of her 13-year tenure, she quickly advanced to the role of program director for substance use programs, including a licensed opioid treatment program. Lori became a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC). In 2015, she was honored with the Young Alumni Award from Albright College, and in 2021, she was recognized as a Recovery Champion by the Philadelphia Mayor’s Commission on Addiction and Recovery.
In 2023, Lori joined Rosewood Recovery as the clinical-program director, where she played a key role in launching a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Newtown, PA. In her clinical work, Lori favors an eclectic approach incorporating Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt techniques, and the Harm Reduction model.