Hey RT,

I haven't read everything written, yet I understand where you're coming from. I think (my opinion only) in your scenario you are trying to recreate a satisfactory response to an old wound, one you may not be consciously aware of.

I hope on this post you hear from the preschool teachers and elementary teachers on this forum on how they would handle one of their students — Despite the fact you are an adult — or a parent of a young child being treated this way by their therapist or teacher in public. What would they do? What are their expectations?

Greeting and acknowledging you at a venue should not be an issue for a therapist if that's what a client wants. I don't by the fact that it's to much to remember. Meeting your current therapist is a very different scenario than meeting with a college instructor, lawyer, baker, hairdresser in a public space due to the nature of the relationship. Many therapy relationships are very different, and Sometimes, more is required from a therapist: hugs, emails, phone calls, etc. But, the most important thing is your remembering, not all therapist are willing to do what you wish, because of their comfort zone. What some people here call boundaries. And, if it is a public clinic therapist as opposed to private practice, they may have no choice but, to turn your request down flat.

Is there a possibility of requesting that if your paths cross in public that he or she not ignore you, and at least greet you or you greet him/her, and then leave it at that? And, after that what ever happens happens (e.g. They say hello and move along, chat awhile, you joining them or visa versa). In my opinion only, it would not be do hard for a therapist to remember *greet when we meet* especially, since you feel so strongly about this.

For people who've successfully negotiated through therapy hopefully they would not have a fight or flight response when they see their former therapist in public. And for those that are still in therapy maybe it's something to probably work on, because it just maybe how you deal with many of your past, present, and future relationships. That maybe a small or major sign of progress

These are my Opinions only, folks.

RT, I wish you all the Best. I know you are GTGT!