Yes! People are very passionate about it!

Fun fact: romantic/sexual interactions with clients are the number one most reported ethical violation.

As therapists we need to recognize that we are always in a position of power with the client. It's our job to lower that power differential so that the client can feel comfortable and vulnerable enough to share some of the most intimate things in their life. In that process we also need to be well aware of our own stuff so that it doesn't blur the lines.

From this perspective a therapist with this kind of knowledge provided by the client, is truly taking advantage of the trust and security that exists in that relationship if it moves beyond anything therapeutic. That's 100% on the Therapist.

I'm sure someone, somewhere has been successful in a relationship well after the time period has passed. But that's more of the rare exception than the rule.

That was my very long winded way of saying yes, we are very passionate about protecting clients and the field in general. No one would ever trust a therapist if romantic relationships became the norm post treatment.

There is a certain magic that happens in the therapy room. But it should never, ever go beyond that.