I have never shaken my T's or Pdoc's hand.

I told T first visit hugs were a must. I didn't feel comfortable enough to ask for one till a few months later. It took me a year to ask Pdoc if hugs were okay.

I never had a T who allowed me to call or email. Then again, last T I had was 14 years ago and it wasn't common back then. But all my Ts have allowed hugs. I won't stay if they don't. But hugs have a practical aspect, as well as, an emotional aspect. I judge if the relationship is okay via hugs. To can tell a lot by how someone hugs.

...current T does allow me to call and email. Her number os also google voice.