Former T could act authoritatively if the circumstances demanded it of him (only in a case of preserving life and as a last resort); but I would not cast him as an authority figure. I saw him more as a protector than an authority figure. And his overall philosophy of practice was not to cast himself in an authoritative role. I see his role much as my own as a teacher: I guide students by creating an environment that I believe provides them the best opportunities to succeed, but occasionally I have to take authoritative action because the ethics of my profession require it of me.

Current T I can't even imagine being authoritative in tone or action. But I also don't see her in a protective role, nor am I looking for that. So with a different type of client, maybe she could be more decisive.