I'd have to say that I am really impressed with the level of discourse on this message board particularly in this area. Ms Iyanla's propensity to mother the women and to draw them into her bosom as well as her aggressive dominance brings to mind another element: Many of these women have issues with their mothers, in addition to understanding appropriate intimacy and how to be close with people. One has to wonder how effective it is for Ms Iyanla to demand on the spot embraces.

Iyanla: Jodi, I command you to come into my embrace this instant. Resist me not! I invite you to feel my power

I know Dr. Stan is officially the only "professional" in the house, but I much prefer his hands off approach. He told the women last season that he will gladly hug them, they only have to ask. I respect that because it leaves the power with the women, and isn't that supposed to be what this show is all about anyway...empowering women? Iyanla's ego seems to get in the way of the womens' progress at times.

As nutty as Rhonda is sometimes, no one can question her motives (altho she does go overboard sometimes with the art crap).