Posted by allisonf on July 16, 2003, at 20:26:36
In reply to Re: Same sex therapist? No No., posted by pinkeye on July 16, 2003, at 17:14:22
I agree with you guys that the therapy relationship is unlike any other. I am really facinated by it--I try to read everything I can about the therap. alliance, transference, etc. It seems that *most* of what's out there (with the exception of "In Session") is heavy duty psychoanalytic and not incredibly helpful. I think there is so much more research to be done on the topic--what exactly is it about the interaction that makes it work?
Also, I agree that most good therapists care or even love their clients, but in a professional way (if there is such a thing). One thing that gave me even more respect for my therapist was realizing that it must be tough for her too b/c her needs can't always be met by our relationship either. A few months ago, I was in a cranky period and just blew off therapy. Even tho she was angry and I know she wanted to express it, we spent all the follow up time talking about my feelings (as we should). But I found myself thinking what a sort of unnatural sacrifice therapists have to make & how draining that must be for them. Don't remind me... I know that I pay a healthy sum for that kind of treatment, but still...
poster:allisonf
thread:241865
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20030711/msgs/242700.html