Therapist Self-of-the-Therapist: Clinical Use of Self (3 CEU's)

ADVANCED / PREMIUM TRAININGS

Therapist Self-of-the-Therapist: Clinical Use of Self 3 CEUs

Overview:

The therapist’s use of self is a powerful and often underexamined component of effective clinical work. Beyond techniques and theoretical orientation, a clinician’s internal reactions, interpersonal style, and self-awareness significantly influence the therapeutic relationship and treatment outcomes. Without intentional reflection and skillful use of self, therapists may unintentionally contribute to enactments, countertransference reactions, or missed opportunities for deeper clinical work.

In this presentation, Dr. Zairys Feliz, Ph.D., LCSW, will guide participants in developing a deeper understanding of the “self-of-the-therapist” and how to use it effectively and ethically in clinical practice. Attendees will explore concepts such as countertransference, emotional reactivity, boundaries, and the therapist’s role within relational dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on increasing self-awareness, identifying personal triggers, and using internal responses as clinical data rather than barriers to treatment.

Participants will learn practical strategies to regulate their own emotional responses, maintain therapeutic presence, and intentionally use themselves as a tool to enhance the therapeutic alliance and facilitate client insight and change. This training is designed to support clinicians in strengthening their professional identity, improving clinical effectiveness, and navigating complex relational dynamics with greater confidence and clarity.

Objectives:

• Analyze the role of the therapist’s internal experience in shaping the therapeutic process.

• Identify countertransference and personal triggers that impact clinical work.

• Apply strategies to use the self-of-the-therapist intentionally and ethically to enhance treatment outcomes.

Scope and Limitations Disclosure

This course provides licensed mental health professionals with an overview of the self-of-the-therapist and its application in clinical practice. Participants will learn to identify and manage internal responses and use them to inform therapeutic work. While concepts from various theoretical orientations may be discussed, this training does not provide psychotherapy or supervision and is not a substitute for personal therapy, clinical supervision, or advanced training in specific modalities. Attendees are expected to apply the material within their professional scope of practice, ethical guidelines, and licensure requirements.

Financial and Commercial Disclosure

The presenter has no relevant financial relationships or conflicts of interest to disclose. Any references to therapeutic models, interventions, or resources are provided solely for educational purposes. Participants are not required to purchase any additional materials to complete this course.

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All purchases of pre-recorded (self-study) CE courses are subject to this refund policy. By enrolling, you agree to these terms. Participants who have not accessed any portion of the course may request a full refund within 7 days of purchase. Once a course has been accessed, streamed, or downloaded, refunds are no longer available due to immediate access to course materials. Refunds will also not be issued to participants who do not complete the course, fail the required post-test, or do not meet participation requirements, as certificates are only awarded upon successful completion. If you experience verified technical issues that prevent access, we will make reasonable efforts to resolve the problem; if it cannot be resolved, a full or partial refund may be issued. If you believe the course did not meet its stated learning objectives, you may submit a written complaint within 7 days of completion for review, and a partial or full refund may be granted at our discretion. All course purchases are non-transferable and may not be shared, resold, or assigned to another individual.