What does the term "transference" refer to in therapy?

Transference refers to the phenomenon in which clients unconsciously redirect feelings, emotions, and desires from past relationships onto their therapist. This often occurs because the therapist may inadvertently remind the client of significant individuals from their past, such as parents or partners. This process can provide valuable insight into the client's emotional world and help uncover unresolved issues. By recognizing and exploring these feelings within the therapeutic context, the therapist can assist the client in understanding better their relational patterns, which can lead to healing and growth.

The other options, while related to therapeutic concepts, do not accurately define transference. The therapist’s response to the client’s feelings reflects the therapeutic alliance and the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship rather than transference itself. Establishing boundaries in therapeutic relationships is crucial for effective practice but is more related to ethical standards than to the concept of transference. Lastly, while analyzing client behavior is an important aspect of therapy, it is a broader process that does not specifically address the concept of transference.