Is It Normal to Text with Your Therapist?

Texting with your therapist can vary based on the therapist’s policies, the therapeutic approach, and your specific needs. This article explores the norms and considerations surrounding this mode of communication in therapy.

Therapist’s Policies

Many therapists have specific guidelines regarding communication outside of sessions. Some allow brief texts for scheduling or quick check-ins, while others prefer to keep communication strictly within session times. It’s essential to understand your therapist’s policies before initiating text-based communication.

Professional Boundaries

Maintaining professional boundaries is crucial in therapy. Excessive texting or discussing deep emotional issues outside of sessions might blur these boundaries. It’s important to respect the designated boundaries set by your therapist to ensure the integrity of the therapeutic relationship.

Purpose of Communication

The purpose of the communication should also be considered. If the text is for logistical reasons—such as rescheduling or brief updates—it may be more acceptable. However, if you are seeking in-depth support or emotional processing, it’s usually best to address these topics during a scheduled session.

Therapeutic Relationship

Open communication about your preferences and needs with your therapist is crucial. Discussing the possibility of texting and how it fits into your therapeutic relationship can help clarify expectations. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to bring it up in your next session to get your therapist’s perspective. In my own experience, I text with mine primarily for schedule adjustments and occasionally for professional exchange.

Is My Experience Typical?

I text with my therapist, but mainly about schedule adjustments or professional topics that are relevant to my work as a psychologist. We do not discuss issues that were addressed in a session. Instead, we have an open chat where I write daily, and he comments only when he deems it necessary or when I ask for his input. This arrangement allows me to process my thoughts and emotions on my own, with the option to seek further guidance.

During challenging times, such as the holiday season, my therapist often responds more frequently to provide support. Similarly, during moments of distress or flashbacks, he responds immediately to offer comfort and guidance. At our next session, we review my messages to discuss them further if needed. Journaling has proven to be particularly valuable for processing traumatic experiences that often lead to shame and fear of flashbacks.

I understand that many therapists prefer a more structured approach to communication outside of sessions. However, for now, this chat serves as a way to stay connected with my therapist. Between sessions, I often detune and need to rebuild trust. This method helps in maintaining a consistent dialogue that builds trust and support.

As my therapy progresses and I manage my trauma better, my therapist will respond less frequently. For now, this format of communication is essential for building a strong therapeutic relationship. While I love journaling, the added benefit of knowing my therapist is reading my thoughts is deeply comforting and validating.

It’s clear that texting with a therapist is a personalized and flexible arrangement. The key is to communicate openly with your therapist to establish a system that works best for both of you.