Abstract

Historically, the view towards those with disabilities has ranged from divine reverence to complete social exclusion, with many holding attitudes that fluctuate between these polarities.  Based on the notion of otherness and transference anxiety, such perspectives may impact the therapeutic alliance between able-body clients and a counselor with a visible disability. Two focus groups were held, exploring the complexities which may arise within the therapeutic relationship of an able-body client and a counselor with a visible disability. The exploratory investigation centered on: the underlying attitudes towards disabilities, role of disclosure, nature of disability, and client’s self comparison. The focus groups yielded some preliminary findings which may guide therapists with visible disabilities with respect to building rapport and guiding disclosure of the disability.

Key words: Counseling, physical disability, therapeutic alliance, attitudes.