Expert: Laura Giles, MSW - 11/24/2011

Question
Hi,
My problem is that I have a crush on my therapist's daughter. I've never actually met the daughter, but I've seen her facebook profile. I really want to meet her because I find her very attractive. I'm not sure if I should tell my therapist about this because what if it freaks her out? Would my therapist be scared if I mentioned my attraction to her daughter? Would it be a bad idea for me to mention it in session?

Also, as a side note, I save pictures of the daughter on my computer so that I can look at them whenever I want to. I've done this with other crushes too. It's not that I have any desire to stalk her or anything, it's just that she's so attractive. Is this really odd to save pictures of someone on your computer and should I talk to someone about it?

Thank you so much for your response. I hope you have a happy Thanksgiving!

Answer
Dear .,

I think if you are going to have a positive working relationship with your therapist, you should mention the crush as this has the power to impact your therapy. It doesn't really matter if you are afraid of freaking out the counselor. It's something that you have to do.

It's not odd to save pictures of attractive people. That's why movie stars and musicians have such appeal- they look good. We buy gossip magazines and watch gossip shows to see what they are up to. As long as we maintain perspective, it's not a bad thing at all.

Talk to your therapist. I think you will get a sense of peace from the conversation.

Sincerely,

Laura Giles