I am so glad I am one of the lucky ones, whos therapist will provide comforting touch. In moments of deep distress she will sit next to me, hold my hand, put her arms around me and even stroke my hair. I find this of great comfort, in a purely nurturing way........although it was 2 years before this happened. I think that being able to have some form of physical comfort can only be beneficial, if it is in the best interest of the client. I dont know how I would feel it the therapist was a male though, as I feel very much that she is comforting the child within, much as a mother would, with comforting nurturing touch.