[BlackCanary]

I met my female psychiatrist last week, first time in months, a medication check. I've seen her around the office, just haven't had an appt.
I also figured out what is different for me, with a woman:
*I started by saying "Wow, I love your hair, it looks great!"
She replies that it is not what she planned but it turned out well. Then she compliments me "And you look wonderful, so good". I have been exercising.

My male T will NEVER EVER say anything about my appearance. NEVER.

And I made the mistake of pointing out - with my finger - the white space on the back of his neck after his last haircut, which was much too short. I was walking behind him and I didn't think about what I was doing, it was like tucking in someone's shirt tag that is hanging out.
The following session he said he would appreciate it if I did not touch his neck. OMG so EMBARRASSED!!

[purple_fins]

Yes, males have to be VERY cautious with female clients as females have to be cautious with male clients.

Does one type of reaction feel more comfortable or more safe for you?

I've been to only one male T. and I wasn't as comfortable with him as I've been with a female T. (I have both male and female issues from abuse) ...... but it's all in what is comfortable for each person and what things they are trying to heal(IMO)

it is interesting the difference though, isn't it?.
yes..... interesting...

[BlackCanary]

Luckily I get along great with my T - I was able to tell him about complimenting the psychiatrist's hair, how it's different with a woman.
So, when I met with him yesterday we each started the session by saying "Gee I love your hair". Ha ha.

I like your question! I do love the natural comfort level with a woman, and the fact that a woman WILL compliment me, does not have to be so cautious with words and actions. I really feel how inhibited my T is by our gender difference, stifling his normal human reactions. And I know why he feels he must do it but it makes me sad.

So, for some of my work I'll need to seek out another T, a woman. But I also know I'm not ready to do that work (again). There is plenty I need to do to maintain my mental health that I can do with my male T.