(((((((((((((((sometimes)))))))))))))))))))
I think you need to follow your gut instincts. A therapeutic relationship, especially after seing him for a long time, does become close, but THERAPEUTICALLY close. If he's making you uncomfortable and making passes at you, even if you are making passes at him - which I'm not saying you are - he is supposed to be professional enough to address that issue and not act upon it. Furthermore, he should be reported to the licensing board for crossing the line. What if someone without your strength is manipulated by him and hurt? I would encourage you to search your soul on this issue and do what you need to do to stay safe and comfortable throughout your therapeutic care.
<font color="red"> </font> "Bad therapy, however, is about consistent or intentional choices made by the therapist that are inappropriate or harmful to the client. It is important for clients to be aware of behavior that may constitute bad therapy so that they are in a better position to be good consumers. INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR ON THE PART OF THE THERAPIST INCLUDES POOR BOUNDARIES THAT ARE MANIFESTED BY PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH CLIENTS OUTSIDE THE THERAPY OFFICE OR BY EXCESSIVE SELF-DISCLOSURE ON THE PART OF THE THERAPIST. ANY SEXUAL CONTACT BETWEEN A THERAPIST AND A CLIENT IS AN EXTREME FORM OF BOUNDARY VIOLATION. IF THIS TYPE OF BEHAVIOR OCCURS WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THERAPY, THE CLIENT SHOULD IMMEDIATELY TERMINATE THE RELATIONSHIP AND REPORT THE THERAPIST'S BEHAVIOR TO THE APPROPRIATE LICENSING BOARD."
At the very least, please review what has been happening with another therapist, even if it's in a phone conversation.
Good luck.
__________________
 "It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end.
|