I think that intensity and boundaries are much easier to quantify when we talk about physical play. It's much easier to negotiate which types of physical play are appealing and which are not, to establish where and which sort of marks may be left and to explain your pain tolerance. It is much more difficult to establish these guidelines in psychological play. When you come to me asking for humiliation and degradation, in depth communication is needed. Toying with the psyche is the ultimate pleasure for me and I've been fortunate to meet some wildly adventurous gentlemen in the hobby who love to be fucked between the ears. One person's intense pain is a mere tickle to other. Talking it through ahead of time is everything.
BR, I think there's ample opportunity for connecting on a personal level, within respectful boundaries that protect both parties. You should also consider this: the P4P aspect ultimately gives the sub much more control over the situation. I am much more open to the personal preferences of my clients and cater our play to their desires above my own. When someone wants to play with me in my personal life, they self-select. When you're playing with women who are sadists outside the hobby, you should be thankful to have that professional boundary keeping you safe