I'm not sure if I'm answering this thread correctly but I think we all want to feel important in this life. That we exist for a reason. Some of us are lucky to have a job where we can help other people, dr., lawyer, financial advisor, therapist, etc. Some of us were blessed with a gift or talent for something huge. To use that to help someone else is a beautiful thing. Many of us (myself included) work to pay the bills and don't have as much of an affect on people (or so we think). I've been to a few therapists in my life and some just sat there and allegedly "listened" but they offered little to no feedback. I wondered if they even heard what I said? One guy just kept repeating in a monotone voice "I understand" or "mmm what did you think about that?" Well, I'm paying him to do some thinking too. I want feedback. I welcome the T with questions, observations or advice. It shows me they are interested in my life. Therapy can get as personal as you let it. You can give a vague answer if you don't want to address the question directly or just say you're not ready to get into that yet (maybe you'll never be ready). I think you kind of rule where it goes but sometimes T's need to encourage us to delve into things we are reluctant to for our own good. They will help you work through bad feelings. If you're not comfortable with your therapist then maybe you are not a good fit but it kinda sounds like you do have a good relationship. BTW I'm a little nosey about T too. I like to know who I'm talking to. Someone very closed up is a turn off to me and won't hold me for long.