I did a post about another blog on hugging your therapist. My reaction was one of not in my life time. What is interesting is that a lot of folks hit my blog when searching on that subject. So I figure that I will discuss it a bit more.

When it comes to physical contact between you and your therapist there needs to be a conversation. Is it something that you are comfortable with and is it something that they are. If we use me as an example I would be really uncomfortable with hugging any therapist. Actually any professional I deal with. I also wouldn’t hug my plumber and I love my plumber. Seriously Bob is just awesome. My therapist is also a great guy, but for me a handshake is fine.

I know what you are thinking. You are thinking I am a distant and cold person. Not touchy feely at all. Surprise! You are wrong. I hug and kiss my friends and family. I am actually a very touchy feely person. I like the comfort you get from that physical touch when with people who I view as safe. These are people who I know on a personal level. Maybe that is where my issue comes in. Since I am most comfortable with therapy when I look at it as a business relationship I recognize that I do not have a personal connection.

Okay I heard that. Yes, I do realize that therapy is very personal. Yet it isn’t friend or family personal. There does not exist a mutual sharing of ourselves in therapy. There shouldn’t be in all reality. I have had a therapist in the past where half the time was spent discussing her issues. Needless to say she used to always tell me I was a great listener and easy to talk to. No discount for that time period.

What it comes down to is what you and your therapist are comfortable with. Keep in mind that your therapist may not be open to more physical contact than a hand shake or pat on the back. It has nothing to do with you, but with them and where they are.

I wish you the best in your therapy whether there are hugs or high fives.