My (male) T has never had physical contact with me. In fact, he has rarely been closer than three or four feet from me. This is what works for me; I don't know that he would behave similarly with another client who was more comfortable with contact.

I used to think that all physical contact was inappropriate, but I am now able to understand how some contact, such as brief touching or hugging, might be therapeutic. My T provides this to me in words, such as "I want to take care of you." Both physical touch and verbal expressions of caring can be invaluable. I certainly reflect on the verbal expressions often when I am feeling alone.