I had a pdoc for therapy as a kid until i graduated college. she was a replacement for my mom and I was devastated when I stopped seeing her, so even though I didn't know it I was dependent on her.

Its been some time since I've had these feelings, but I definitely think I am dependent on my pdoc in a way. Not on my female t though, so I take that to mean I have some transference going on. I also think its just what I know of the therapeutic relationship. As a kid I never thought about not seeing her, she was just a part of my life. Even if I didn't see her for months, I knew I could. I feel like that now about my psychiatrist.

At first he was a crush as well as a replacement for my husband. I have man issues so I think I needed him as the "new" man I would go to for support and ( hopefully) acceptance. As my h and I began working things out last year, that has lessened significantly, but I still like having him as a fixture in my life. He prescribes my meds of course, which anyone can do, but I also talk to him about my relationship issues and even sometimes grad school related things. I guess that's still dependence and it is interesting to think about where I would expect to go from here. It would be nice if I just grow out of him, but I don't let go of things or people easily, so I can't imagine it happening...

very good thread, you come up with great discussions!