I realize you're probably not asking how a pro feels about this, Spark, as our job is to "show up" for everyone we see. But I do have some thoughts on this and so will contribute.

I do understand that a greater feeling of familiarity can open up the channels of trust for some people; and that by doing so it allows for another level of play that is otherwise difficult for them to achieve.

I will say that the longer I play with someone, and the more I get to know them, the more the interaction feels like a friend than a client. (I still maintain nearly all of the same boundaries, however.)

But developing a familiarity before I play with someone is not needed for me at all. (I do prefer to speak to someone, but I don't have to.) I think you can make a conscious a decision to *allow* the connection to occur. It requires trust and being present.

How do you define "emotional connection"? And why do you think you need one?