scorpio, what interesting is that your remarks are almost all about the therapist's safety and not the client's, when the actual therapeutic relationship is usually more focused on the safety of the client since the therapist presumably is stable and solid so doesn't require the same attention to safety as someone who is vulnerable.

Also I don't understand the "oughts" or "shoulds" that are implicit in what you are saying. I didn't think therapy was about "the rules," it is rather about empathy, caring, and healing. Because it is often emotionally charged, it is different from other professionals like a dentist. There is actually a relationship there and all human relationships run into difficulties now and again, especially if one person isn't exactly stable and has needs.

I of course agree to all you say about not disrespecting a therapist. That damages the relationship so no real work can be done. But for me, it is not about obeying rules or bowing down to the therapist's professional standing. They work for us. We are their bosses.