>>>The whole hugging thing... I'm afraid to say no, because I'm afraid he will end the therapy because I don't trust him... I feel extremely uncomfortable, but when I think about it, I would rather have it that way than no hugging...>>>

The cornerstone and foundation of therapy is trust and honesty as well as respect. Without those things, I don't think there is much chance, if any, of therapy being successful. If you are not being honest with your therapist, what it the point of going to therapy? And I certainly couldn't/wouldn't work with a therapist I didn't trust.

You need to be honest about your feelings and if your therapist is offended or is not honest with you or does not respect your feelings and wishes, it is best to find that out as soon as possible so you can move on to another therapist who is, otherwise you are just waisting your time and money.

You might want to examine if gender is an issue for you. It is not for some and others are more comfortable working with someone of the same gender.

Remember, doctors and therapists work for you. You hire then and you can fire them. We wouldn't think twice about terminating a bad hair stylist or mechanic or contractor, why should a doctor or therapist be any different?

Good Luck, I hope it works out and if it doesn't, don't be afraid to move on until you find the right person for you whom you can really trust. Sometimes it takes several tries before we find the person who is right for us. Don't settle until you do.