American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Transference occurs when a client projects feelings and emotions from one relationship onto another, often due to the therapeutic relationship that is established during sessions. In this situation, the client developing a romantic interest in their massage therapist reflects how the client is transferring feelings that may be rooted in their personal experiences or desires onto the therapist.

This dynamic is common in therapeutic contexts, where a client may develop strong emotional attachments as they navigate vulnerability through the massage therapy process. Understanding this concept is crucial for massage therapists, as recognizing transference allows them to maintain professional boundaries and ensure that the therapeutic environment remains focused on the client’s well-being. Transference highlights the complexities of emotional interactions in therapeutic relationships, particularly in settings where touch and personal care are integral to the process.