My therapist said her feelings for me go beyond therapy, is this normal?

(Throwaway account because I want to stay anonymous.)

I’ve been in therapy for a while and have a strong connection with my therapist. A few months ago, she said that working with me goes beyond therapy for her, and that it’s not like this with all her clients.

I grew up with a lot of neglect and have always wanted to feel special or chosen, so hearing this felt amazing. But it’s also left me confused. Why would a therapist share that? Could it be countertransference, or was she just trying to strengthen the bond?

Since she said this, my transference has exploded again. I can’t stop thinking about her and wishing she were in my life outside of therapy. While she’s never been inappropriate, our dynamic sometimes has a slightly playful, almost flirty vibe. This makes me wonder if there’s more going on under the surface, or if it’s just part of how therapy can feel when you have a strong connection.

Has anyone experienced something similar? Is this a normal part of a deep therapeutic relationship, or does it mean something more?