I Have Feelings for a Friend. Should We Try it Out?

Dr. Wendy Walsh

Written by: Dr. Wendy Walsh

Dr. Wendy Walsh

Known as America's Relationship Expert, Dr. Wendy Walsh is an award-winning television journalist, radio host & podcaster, and the author of three books on relationships and thousands of print and digital articles. More than 1.5 million people follow her sage advice on social media. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and teaches in the Psychology Department at California State University Channel Islands and has been the host of "The Dr. Wendy Walsh Show" on iHeart Radio's KFI AM 640 since 2015. Walsh is also a former Emmy-nominated co-host of "The Doctors," as well as former host of the nationally syndicated show "EXTRA." She was named a Time Magazine Person of the Year in 2017 after speaking out about harassment at a major news network.

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Edited by: Lillian Castro

Lillian Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of journalism experience to ensure DatingAdvice articles have been edited for overall clarity, accuracy, and reader engagement. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, The Gwinnett Daily News, and The Gainesville Sun covering lifestyle topics.

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Reader Question:

I am really close friends with this guy. He told me he has feelings for me. I told him I have feelings for him also. He told me it’s my decision on what we should do, but I do not know what to do.

Should we stay close friends for now, try it out or go on a few dates as friends first?

-Jamillah C. (Florida)

Dr. Wendy Walsh’s Answer:

You’re doing it. Friendship should come first. Stay close friends. Build love, emotional intimacy and trust before you have sexual contact.

Make sure you have good communication skills and can voice your needs. This is how healthy relationships are built.


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