This phenomenon is known as "post-therapy friendship."
Therapeutic relationships can be very intense and intimate. Over the course of therapy, clients often share personal experiences and emotions with their therapists, and this can create a strong bond. When therapy comes to an end, some clients may feel a sense of loss or nostalgia for the therapeutic relationship, which can lead to a desire to maintain contact with their former therapist.
It's important to note that the ethical guidelines for mental health professionals typically discourage them from engaging in social or non-professional relationships with their former clients for a certain period of time after therapy has ended. This guideline is in place to ensure that the client's well-being remains the top priority and that there are no conflicts of interest or boundary violations.
However, once a sufficient amount of time has passed, and both parties have moved on from the therapeutic relationship, it is not uncommon for former clients and therapists to reconnect on a more equal footing as friends. The key is that the transition from therapist-client to friends should be based on mutual consent and a genuine desire to maintain a friendship, rather than any power dynamics or unresolved therapeutic issues.
Each situation is unique, and whether a friendship develops or not depends on various factors, including the personalities and boundaries of both the client and the therapist. Some people may choose to maintain a more distant, professional relationship, while others may naturally evolve into friends over time.
If you find yourself in such a situation or are considering reconnecting with your former therapist, it's essential to reflect on your motivations and assess the potential impact on your emotional well-being. If you feel that maintaining a friendship is appropriate and beneficial for both of you, and there are no ethical concerns, then it can be a positive experience. However, if you have any doubts or reservations, it might be helpful to discuss them with a current therapist or a trusted person in your life to gain some perspective.