Hi Musik,
You may or may not have to take them long-term. Or, you may have to take them for a couple years here or there.

The thing that I learned over the years, is that there is a correct med for one to take that will completely alleviate all or most of the symptoms. Don't settle for one that just gets you half-way there.

Also, don't base your health on what others may think. If you and your doctor end up deciding that you feel better taking them, then I'd think that's what you would choose to do.

Your comment about being really close to your counselor and more like friends threw up a little red flag for me. Are the boundaries a bit blurred? Do you think you could benefit more from a more objective T?

Take good care,
Okie