Thanks everyone for your responses!! I think everyone's unique perspective is very very interesting!

(((((((((((treehouse)))))))))))))))
That is interesting how your needs have evolved in therapy. I think that is really a sign of great growth, don't you?? Something to be proud of.


(((((((((((((((MissC))))))))))))))))))
That must be very frustrating, to have parts of you wanting totally opposite things. I guess the safest route is 'no hugs', like you said, but how does your child part handle that?
I like what you said too about having a reason for a hug. Yes, a last session would be a good reason......and I might even consider a hug. Or, maybe not.....
I wonder if there are other specific reasons that would make a hug feel ok?

(((((((((((((((((((Deli)))))))))))))))))))
You sound like you have very conflicting feelings about this subject....on one hand wanting a hug, but thinking it is inappropriate, then thinking that it would be awkward if pdoc said no, then thinking your pdoc WOULD give you one, but that it is not a good idea and you need to enforce good boundaries.
I guess for some it's not always such a black and white issue.
And I think that's ok too!

(((((((((((((((Mightaswelllive))))))))))))))))
I like what you said here:
So it is the meaning or purpose of a hug that makes it ok, or not ok?
That kind of makes sense.
But how do you know if it means the same thing to the T as it does to the client, and vice versa?
Just pondering.......

(((((((((((((((Kureha)))))))))))))))))))))))
I wonder if you could bring it up in a general sense...maybe not asking for a hug specifically, but asking if your T ever does hug any clients. I know what you mean about wanting to avoid the awkwardness. There are enough awkward moments in T without adding more!

((((((((((((((((((Sw628)))))))))))))))))))))
Good for you for asking for what you needed, and how wonderful that you got it. I like how you said what the hugs mean to you - reassurance and protection. I guess it may be easier for you to hold on to those feelings when you also have the memory of the physical contact of the hug. Sounds like you have a caring T, esp since she took the initiative to ask around and figure out if hugs were appropriate. Thanks for sharing!

((((((((((((((((((Chris)))))))))))))))))
It sounds like there are lots of people who don't think their Ts would give a hug but would want them to, so you are not alone.

(((((((((((((((((Chaotic)))))))))))))))))
I agree with you. I want it never to be an issue for me either.
I really don't think my T would ever try to hug me, and I'm glad for that.