Hey. Yeah, that sounds like transference to me. Seems that rational understanding (while helping a little) really isn't the answer... I guess I kinda knew that already... It is funny (strange not ha ha) because they used to say that transference couldn't / wouldn't develop online. That that was a downside of online / internet therapy. Seems they were wrong though, huh ;-) I've experienced intense transference responses to people online too. In a way maybe even more intense than anything I've experienced IRL because they are more of a blank screen (since you can't see them) and because it is safer for me too (with them all the way around the other side of the world and all).

Lol. I'm wondering if you mistook your last therapists meaning... When she said you could call her 'Dr'. Sounds like you get idealising transference. Calling her 'Dr' might have been intended to foster that ;-)

And with new t... I'm pretty sure she won't expect you to stop writing to this person.

I've heard about their being 'two types' of patients. A rough over-simplification, no doubt, but anyway, here goes: The first kind is prone to idealising transference and feels attached fairly quickly. The second kind doesn't seem to attach to the therapist, mostly because they are getting their attachments from elsewhere. Maybe she is worried that you won't attach to her because of the other person in your life.

Attachment takes time though. See how it goes :-) It might be easier to deal with the transference stuff with that other person with your t initially. That might kind of pave the way for later stuff.