I just wanted to add, I really don't think being a role model implies modeling every little thing. For example, though I definitely consider my therapist a professional role model for me as a therapist, there are a number of things he has done that I really wouldn't do his way in my practice. Same goes with relationships, etc. I guess for me there is a significant difference between having a role model and trying to imitate that person. It's more like noticing we think similarly in many areas and the other person has more experience / knowledge / skills to deal with some situations, and I learn from them what works for me. Actually, I remember thAt, a few months into my therapy, for some reason I was so embarrassed to feel like my therapist could be a role model for me. Ironically, the more i know who I am and where I am different from him as well as where I am similar, the more comfortable I feel having a role model. I take it as a way of enriching my personality and style, rather than losing my individuality.