Touching involves risk. It is a form of non-verbal communication and, therefore, may be misunderstood by one or both parties involved. It invades intimate space and may be a threat. If we are not in tune with ourselves and the one we touch, it may be inappropriate. However, non-touch may be just as devastating at a time when words are insufficient or cannot be processed appropriately because of feelings of disintegration in the individual. This paper presents an exploration of the ways in which physical communications and unconscious processes are experienced and expressed through the therapeutic encounter. Clinical examples demonstrating touch as relational affirmation are presented.