Sending your therapist a paragraph over email is not inherently bad, especially if your therapist has explicitly encouraged you to do so when needed. Therapists often provide email communication as an option for clients to share thoughts, feelings, or updates between sessions, which can be beneficial for continuity and progress in therapy.
Feeling scared or anxious about reaching out to your therapist via email is not uncommon. There could be several reasons for this:
Vulnerability: Therapy involves opening up about personal experiences and emotions, which can make you feel vulnerable. Sharing your thoughts in writing may intensify this vulnerability as it allows for more introspection and self-disclosure.
Fear of Judgment: You might be concerned about how your therapist will react to the content of the email. Fear of being judged or misunderstood can create anxiety about reaching out.
Attachment and Trust: The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and attachment. You might worry about how your therapist will respond to your email and whether it will affect your relationship.
Past Experiences: Past experiences of rejection or negative reactions from others may influence your perception of how your therapist will respond to your email.
Lack of Immediate Feedback: In face-to-face sessions, you receive immediate feedback from your therapist. Sending an email may leave you uncertain about how your therapist will respond and when you will receive a reply.
If you feel scared or anxious about sending the email, it might be helpful to:
Reflect on Your Feelings: Take some time to understand why you feel scared. Identify any underlying concerns or fears that might be contributing to your anxiety.
Talk About It in Therapy: Share your feelings with your therapist during your next session. Discussing your fears can help your therapist understand your emotions and provide support and reassurance.
Set Boundaries: If you're concerned about the content of the email or how much to share, set clear boundaries for yourself before writing. Focus on what you feel comfortable sharing at this time.
Remember Your Therapist's Support: Remind yourself that your therapist has offered email communication as a means of support. Trust that they will respond in a professional and caring manner.
Take Your Time: You don't need to rush. Take the time you need to compose the email when you feel ready to do so.
Remember that therapy is a safe space for expressing your thoughts and feelings, and your therapist is there to support you. If you find it challenging to send the email, you can discuss your concerns with your therapist and explore alternative methods of communication that feel more comfortable for you.