I would be feeling all those things too - hurt, angry, and ashamed that I took something that did not belong to me.

She offered, though, and you took her at her word that it was OK.

I do think that human beings should be allowed to change their minds about all manner of things. There should be freedom to say, "This arrangement works for me," and then when it doesn't, to say, "This arrangement doesn't work for me."

This therapist sounds a bit inexperienced, particularly if she's changing the terms of your contractual relationship every few weeks. (I'm referring to the previous boundary changes.)

She probably learned a valuable lesson during all this for her future therapy practice.

What really stinks is that you are paying emotionally for the lessons that she is learning in how to handle client's desires for contact versus money constraints.

It makes me think about how George Washington was a great American war general, and eventually the first president. He became a great general from mistakes he made in previous battles. His soldiers paid for those lessons with their lives.

This is like you, paying for her mistakes with your own hurt. She should've known better to offer free phone sessions.

I'm sorry that you are suffering. I selfishly want you to stay in therapy because I enjoy your contributions to this board. (lol)