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Can a Therapist be Your Friend?

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I have mentioned the fact that during my initial therapy sessions with Dr. Romero for treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD, I found her to be rather strict and at times severe. I had my doubts about whether or not we were a fit, but I kept on going to the therapy sessions. The decision was made by me that I would stick it out and would just have to deal with her personality. I even began to think that she didn't like me.

There were times when I thought she was wrong on a few things and called her on it, albeit in a very polite way. She took it well, and did not seem offended, and I respected her for it. During those times I realized that she wasn't so bad after all.

Very gradually I began to notice a slight thawing out on her part. We would occasionally make small talk and that really helped me to perceive her as just a regular person, who incidentally wore the same type of shoes that I wore. We certainly talked about that topic a few times. There were moments when we actually laughed together.

My therapist is from a Spanish speaking country, and because I speak that language I would sometimes talk to her in it. She became much more real then, and I enjoyed practicing my Spanish with her, and still do to this day.

Things have changed tremendously now. I almost think of her as a friend, who is my guide. Out therapy sessions are still therapy sessions, but there is a warmth in the air and empathy emanates from her. Once I told her about a very poignant time in my life and she was so moved. It was written all over her face. Here is a genuine, kind, humane person I thought.

Of course you cannot really be friends with your therapist but that does not mean that the both of can't have warm feelings towards each other. It is a good thing, and is what makes us human.

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Zelda Borges

I am very glad for you.
Zelda

September 29, 2010 - 12:22pm

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Anonymous

I had 2 therapists and a psychiatrist while suffering from OCD during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. These 3 women were wonderful. I know I cannot hang out with them for professional reasons but they were great friends when I was really suffering.

September 29, 2010 - 12:00pm

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Zelda Borges
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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