I think gifts are all about the intent.

If someone gives gifts in an attempt to wield control in a relationship, then that's a problem, and it probably shows itself in other ways in the relationship.

Or if the gifts are offerred out of a sense of apology for existing, then that's a problem.

In either case, the T should refuse because to accept is to engage in behavior that is ultimately hurtful to the client.

But if the intent is to show appreciation, or to honor a significant achievement, I don't think they blur the lines. For a T to refuse a gift given from such intent I think creates a hurt. (Syra, I think it was terrible for your T to refuse a termination gift: that creates a hurtful last impression that I just don't see the point of.)

I brought my T a box lunch one day to celebrate the lifting of my depression such that I felt like cooking again.

And I gave him a small gift related to his hobby upon his retirement.

I don't really see giving holiday gifts, except perhaps some sort of food. But I don't give holiday gifts to other professionals in my life, either.

It's difficult for me to see many circumstances when it's appropriate for a T to give a client a gift. I can see sharing something significant in meaning to honor achievement, especially at the end of therapy.

I tend to see it in the same vein as teacher/student gifts. I often receive small gifts from students, especially from foreign students upon returning from their home countries, as it reflects both their cultural standards and appreciation. I would never refuse such gifts.

But it is very rare that I would give a gift to a student, unless that student became a friend after being my student.