You can find love anywhere, including in a therapy office, it seems. According to a new study from Dating.com, a surprising number of people are developing romantic feelings for their therapists.
As with any connection, it begins with attraction, and the study found a robust 47% of respondents say they have felt attracted to their therapist at some point. The thoughts are also transcending into their dream space, considering 31% even admit to having intimate dreams about them.
Whether it’s ethical to date your therapist is up for debate for those who have these feelings. However, more than half of respondents (57%) believe it’s acceptable to date a therapist. If you’re wondering how many are bold enough to actually do it, 28% say they have or at least attempted to. Overall, the data suggests that as treatment becomes more normalized, the comfort people find with their therapists can lead to attraction. When that occurs, emotional intimacy and professional boundaries may become blurred.
While strange, it is understandable that people are interested in their therapist. As mentioned, therapy offers a unique relational dynamic that provides structured emotional safety without the unpredictability that often comes with traditional dating. For individuals navigating loneliness, relationship dissatisfaction, or attachment wounds, that safety can feel deeply intimate.
You’re also sharing the most intimate parts of yourself with someone regularly, which can foster emotional connection.
It is important to note that while 57% of respondents believe that dating a therapist is acceptable, professional ethical standards hold that it’s not. Therapists are prohibited from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with current clients since the therapeutic relationship carries a power imbalance designed to prioritize the client’s wellbeing.
Mental health professionals are usually trained to maintain strict boundaries to protect clients and ensure that therapy remains a safe and effective space for growth.
What should you do if you find yourself attracted to your therapist? It may be worth requesting a referral to another provider should feelings become especially strong or discussing it with your therapist.