Transference-focused psychotherapy, or TFP, is a structured psychodynamic therapy developed by Otto Kernberg and colleagues in the United States. It was originally designed for people who struggle with rapidly shifting emotions, an unstable sense of self and stormy relationships.
The core idea of TFP is that we carry inner images of ourselves and others that are sometimes split and contradictory: one moment someone is all good, the next all bad. These images also appear in the relationship with the therapist, and by exploring them in session a person can reach a more integrated, realistic view of themselves and others.
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TFP begins with a "treatment contract": you and the therapist agree on session frequency, each person's role and what to do in crisis moments. This clear frame creates the safety that makes deeper work possible.
In sessions the therapist attends to "transference", meaning how you see and experience the therapist in the moment. You might see the therapist as cold and uncaring one day and as the only person who understands you the next. Through clarification, gentle confrontation and interpretation, the therapist helps these opposite images be seen side by side.
The aim is to integrate these pieces, so that a person can accept that both they and others are a mix of good and bad qualities. This shift can support more stability in emotions, identity and relationships.
In its standard form TFP often involves two 45 to 50 minute sessions a week, although some therapists adapt it to once a week. Sessions take place online at fixed times, and the therapist is fairly active.
TFP is usually long-term and often lasts at least a year. At times you may feel strong emotions toward your therapist; in this approach that is part of the process and is talked about openly.
Examples are fictional and illustrative.
Mahsa first saw her friends as flawless, then cut them off completely after a small mistake. In sessions the same pattern appeared with her therapist. The therapist helped Mahsa hold both images together. Gradually she could tolerate hurt without ending the relationship entirely.
Farhad lived in England, and being far from his family had intensified his emptiness and anger. He began online therapy in Persian with clear agreements about sessions and crisis moments. Over time he could see that his anger often came from a fear of being abandoned.
Niloufar sometimes saw herself as very capable and sometimes as completely worthless. In TFP these swings were explored within the relationship with her therapist. She says she now has a calmer, more realistic picture of herself.
These therapists list this on their profile. All sessions are online and in Persian.
Transference refers to feelings and expectations from important past relationships that come alive again in new ones, including with the therapist. In TFP this experience is the main tool for understanding and change.
It is a clear agreement about the frame of therapy, such as regular attendance and what to do in a crisis. It is not meant to restrict you but to create a safe, predictable space.
Yes, many therapists offer it online. Fixed times, a private space and a clear safety agreement are especially important.
Part of the treatment contract is knowing in advance what to do in such moments. If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services.
This page is general information and does not replace a professional assessment. If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact your local emergency services. Urgent help
