QuietMind: Based on what you are describing, I am basically the client in that thread. I developed overpowering infatuation and obsession with my T -- emotional, sexual. I became dependent, like an addict. I have few supports and resources (also chronically ill and so physically weak). I have a deprived background (both as child and adult). My T was empathic, compassionate, listened very well and was very present. I felt seen and heard and understood in a way that was unprecedented. She was also subtly seducing me, by self disclosing, giving me special treatment, getting emotionally involved with me, even a bit of subtle flirting.

Eventually she rejected me, saying she did not share my feelings. After that it was a torment and a nightmare. But the attachment/addiction kept me there. She sought supervision. It was evident that she had been advised to distance herself and probably to refer out, though she did not push it right away. Termination became another profound rejection, and triggered horrific abandonment depression. She also betrayed me by withdrawing her door always open promise. In the aftermath, she became punitive and shaming and infantilizing, in response to my asking for additional help and not going away quietly. When I began to point out the harm done and mistakes made, she became hostile and began using evasive clinical language and subtly deflecting blame. Likely she was being advised to cut me off asap to avoid further liability.

Clearly she and whoever was giving advice are ignorant about early trauma and its manifestations in therapy. I was a problem to be managed and then eliminated. The experience has been ruinous. It was humiliating, abusive, exploitive, crazy-making, sadistic, and traumatizing. Caveat emptor.