Posted by Miss Honeychurch on May 17, 2005, at 9:44:49
In reply to Letter to my ex-T, posted by Tamar on May 17, 2005, at 8:47:03
Dear Tamar,
I hope you're not beating yourself up over never discussing this in therapy. What you feel is completely natural and I am truly flattered that you want my friendship. I am so fortunate to work with the people that I do. Please know that I learned much from our time together, enjoyed working with you, and will indeed always remember you with fondness.
Due to the complex nature of the therapist/client realtionship, it is unwise for therapists and former clients to socialize once therapy has stopped. This is one of the boundaries about which I am most adamant. Our realtionship is unequal and will always remain so. One way I protect my clients is not to let this inequality seep into the real world. Our realtionship is unique in the therapy room and would never be able to translate into the real world.
As a competent, professional therapist, who wants only the best for my current and former clients, I maintain careful and solid boundaries, both for my well being as well as yours. Take heart in the fact that you know you received the best of care and the best of therapists as I adhere to these standards of the profession. I have, and always will have, your best interests at heart.
That being said, I would love to hear from you once in awhile, maybe a postcard when you're travelling or any news you might want to share. My door is always open for you and you can come back any time.
It was a pleasure working with you. If your main fear is of being forgotten, don't worry, that won't happen.
Your wonderful Ex-therapist,
Tad
poster:Miss Honeychurch
thread:498850
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/write/20050513/msgs/498881.html