The purpose of this study was to examine and describe experienced counselors' explanations of how they become aware of and deal with countertransference reactions in their practice. A qualitative, descriptive method was used. Five Canadian counselors with a minimum experience of 10 years each were investigated. They worked in public agencies or private practice using an eclectic, humanistic or behavioral approach to counseling. A semi-structured guide was used to interview them in-depth on a personally significant countertransference reaction. The analysis of data revealed the counselors' cognitive strategies for managing their countertransference reactions. They used to a large extent the same strategies regardless of their wide variety of triggers, reactions and counseling orientations. A countertransference management model was developed attributing these strategies to three stages according to the purpose served for these counselors: awareness, understanding and management. Differences in use of strategies in the management stage could be traced to differences in assessments in the understanding stage. This study provides a clearer understanding of what strategies experienced counselors use to become aware of their countertransference reactions and how they understand and manage them. Possible applications of the countertransference management model are suggested and the need for further research on its applicability and usefulness are identified. Contains 79 references. (Author/JBJ)