Most contemporary trauma approaches emphasize trauma processing, making an implicit assumption that the therapeutic relationship will not be problematic or challenging, or at least not offering intensive treatment approaches. But we know that enactments of trauma are common – even expected- and find expression in the relationship between client and therapist. This online course will explore a variety of relational challenges, both from the perspective of the client and their transferences, and the therapist and their countertransference’s. Although this is not an issue for all clients with complex trauma and dissociation, many do have intense relational distress that emerges in the therapeutic relationship. These experiences are tremendous opportunities to resolve avoidance, excessive demands, disappointments and ruptures, and overwhelming yearning in relationships. Many clients with dissociative disorders may have multiple and contradictory experiences of the therapist, adding an additional layer of complexity. Participants will learn about several different relational difficulties and effective approaches to their resolution.