((((((((((((((((( chopin ))))))))))))))))

If I could write your letter, I would be done with therapy. I cannot say what you say, that I am inherently worthy of love, respect, friendship.

Your letter is so deep and honest. I hope your T responds in person and in writing and that the two of you can spend all the time needed on this to answer your questions.

for yourself, I wonder whether you might be able to make some headway into this by looking at something you wrote >> but at the end of the day, A (one of my clients) wonders why I cannot say I am her friend. Why? It's not good for her.
and think about why you question your answer, and why even though you question it, you still did not say that you are her friend. I don't think it is because you think yourself better than her. That's not the Chopin I've come to know here on PC.

you ask >> Well, why isn't it [good for her]? and you know what your training has taught you about that, and in so many years of practice you may also know whether the teaching is true or not.

Therapy is a hard road, yes. Clients (patients, whatever) do suffer, and that means something needs adjusting. The "therapeutic frame" works, I am the first to admit that it's weird and difficult and frustrating and humiliating and all the rest; but it does work. Looking across PC forum I see 9587467373
therapeutic dyads and just as many unique relationships. I hope that you & T work yours out too. sorry for my long ramble, I am wishing peace to you