I had a very neglectful infancy-childhood but I don’t think I have had the same kind of love for my T’s that you are describing although I have been very attached to some in healthy ways and in others very damaging ways. Current T is tapping into the onmet needs deep and hard. I adore him but I still would not say love the way I am hearing you use it. I know he sees part of his job is to be good enough parent AND for me to be able to care for my inner child and work through the feelings from those needs not being met. It is an uncomfortable process for me but I would not call it painful in any way.