Not going to offer many details on the where or how, as I don’t intend to dox myself, but suffice it to say that I will continue touching butts for an extended period. I don’t like feeling aroused by the act. These people placed trust in me. Trust that I mean them no harm and that I am safe to be around. I can certainly be both while aroused, but I’d rather not have to deal with this.
I’d prefer not to dissociate through work, but I can’t find another way to contextualize my experiences in a way that doesn’t leave me frustrated until I get home.
I’m a massage therapist, and have used this approach for decades. People’s bodies are anatomy, and the person residing in that body needs to be cared for with respect and compassion. I learn their needs and concerns, and address their anatomy to best support their needs. I’m being paid to compartmentalize my mind as a professional, and separate out my personal thoughts or judgements.
When I’m not working, people in my personal life are no longer anatomy. They’re people I have relationships with, with different dynamics allowing for different responses.
I’m deeply envious of those, like yourself, who have successfully reframed their clients. How long did it take to do so? I recognize that people are vastly different, but an order of magnitude or two would help frame when it becomes a real issue.