The problem with the word "love" is that the range on connotations goes from "I love ice cream" to "I love my spouse" and everything in between.

How helpful, really, are words without correlation to action? The evidence of love or care or feeling lies in the consistent actions of the person saying the words. AND, it is entirely possible for a person to love or care WITHOUT ever saying those words.

Look for the evidence. Don't get hung up on the words.

Evidence?: My therapist treats me respectfully. He/she is consistent in his/her support of me. He/she validates my experience and emotions. He/she acts with professionalism in order maintain a healthy and productive therapy relationship so that I can achieve what I am there to achieve. My therapist truly hears me and understands what I am communicating. My therapist communicates my own value and lifts that part of me up, even when I can't see it.

I could go on.

If I saw these types of things, that would translate to me as a therapist that does care, probably in his/her core, about me and my well-being.

I don't need the words. Words can be empty.

I need the evidence.