HI Sol.

I don't think you are self-centered. I think that he should not have even mentioned how it affected his staff. That was for him and his staff to deal with. Not to make you shamed for what you did.

I feel for you, because if I were in your shoes, I would probably feel exactly like you and probably even worse (like winding up in the hospital)...because I think in this instance, your T was not dealing with counter-transferance correctly.

I am not saying he should not have been angry. But I am saying, he did not handle it correctly.

Also, as far as the hippo. I would be %$@$ too, because obviously you needed the "transitional object" and instead of focusing on it, he should have been focusing on helping you not need it and the strength of your relationship.

Maybe others disagree with me......but I totally understand you and your response. Hang in there.