What is E-Mail Therapy & How Does It Work?

Email therapy is a form of mental health support where you and I (your therapy) communicate securely through written messages over E-Mail rather than live video or in-person sessions. It is designed to be a flexible, intentional alternative that removes the pressure of real-time conversation.  

1. The Setup: You and I will agree on a scheduled day and time for your sessions to ensure I can thoughtfully read and reply to your email.

2. Sending Your Email: On our agreed day, you'll write and send an email detailing what is on your mind, your current struggles, or what you'd like to work on.

3. My Response: I will spend the equivalent of a standard therapy hour (usually 50 minutes) reading your message and drafting a therapeutic reply. I will typically send this back to you within 24 to 72 hours.

4. Reflection: When you receive the response, you have time to sit with the feedback, reflect on your feelings, and take as long as you need to write your next message. 

How E-Mail Therapy Works

• Enhanced Privacy: It provides an excellent option if you want to keep therapy highly confidential or if you lack a private space to speak out loud.

• Slower, Deeper Pacing: Because there are no awkward silences or pressure to formulate a response immediately, you have time to process your thoughts and find the right words.

• Flexibility: It is highly accessible if you have an unpredictable schedule, shift work, or disabilities that make attending live sessions difficult.

Why Choose E-Mail Therapy

Things To Consider

• Not for Crises: Because of the delay in receiving a response, email therapy is generally not suitable for people experiencing acute psychological distress, crisis, or suicidal thoughts.

• Written Records: You get to keep a permanent, written record of your therapy journey, which some clients find helpful to look back on.

• Security: Therapists usually require the use of secure, encrypted email platforms to protect your privacy.