Do not expect an instant cure from a therapist. Your problems have been yours for a long time and are well established. These patterns can take a while to change. Do not expect a therapist to be your friend in or outside of the therapy session. Dual relationships can lead to complications with your therapy and should be avoided. You may wonder why your therapist doesn’t approach and acknowledge you in public. This is because your therapist wants to keep your relationship confidential. If you make the first move you will get a different response from your therapist.

It is also unlikely that your therapist will attend social functions with you. He or she may attend major life events like a wedding or graduation to acknowledge the significance in your life. Talk to your therapist about your feelings concerning these matters!