I fully agree that the exchange of money is not the deciding factor in whether or not a relationship is real. And, while I think a real relationship certainly can develop between domestic workers and their employers and between prostitues and (long-term) clients, I think the material circumstances are so different that it makes for an uneasy comparison. While there are certainly some who choose domestic labor and prostitution, they are not first-choice careers for most in these professions. Rather, most enter these professions out of a lack of other options (socioeconomic need, lack of education, non-transferable degrees, or lack of money for education, immigration status, racial/gender inequalities, response to childhood trauma, etc). After all, it should be pointed out that the vast majority of theses jobs are performed by lower-class women. These jobs are not sought after and they carry very little cultural capital (respect, public esteem, professional organizations, etc). In sharp contrast, most therapists sought out their professions, went through extensive education and training, come from more privileged backgrounds (socioeconomic class and racial/national/gender status), and there are professional organizations and modes of acknowledging and rewarding achievement in the field. Often, therapists are of a higher socioeconomic status that many of their clients, as opposed to the other way around. Can you imagine offering your hand-me-downs to your therapist? While money certainly does not buy caring, being in a profession you have chosen, enjoy, and gin self-worth and identification through certainly helps. Not having to worry about immigration status, being hungry, having a home, having the ability to support your family , and feeling safe at work also helps therpists put their own needs on hold during session so that they can focus on caring for and helping their clients. I'm not suggesting that care cannot develop in these other relationships. I'm just suggesting that it is so much more complicated.