Recently, I was asked to explain why I discourage clients from emailing me between sessions. I thought in the world of technology, it would be a good topic to address here. I'm not referring to online therapy, but for clients who I usually see in my office, but want to correspond to me via email in between sessions.
Let me start with the issue of confidentiality. There is no way to secure email. It can't be 128-bit encrypted, and it's easier to hack. Plus, there's no guarantee I will receive the email. How many times has someone tolds you they sent you an email, but you never received it? Ouch! Can you imagine sending a lengthy email, contained with personal information, and your therapist never receives it?
Second, emails are easy to be misconstrued. It's very common to misinterpret text messages, emails, etc. because you don't have eye contact, facial expressions, and body language. I, personally, depend on non-verbal communication almost as much as verbal communication when working with the client. I lose a substantial part of the communication through emails.
I understand email and electronic communication is an important means of keeping in contact and is here to stay; however, I believe it's not in your best interest as a client to do therapy over the internet if you are working with me on a regular basis in the office. If clients feel they need to interact with me beyond the weekly session, I encourage them to see me more than once a week, so that they receive the support you are looking for.
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2 comments:
I humbly disagree. Yes, emails can be encrypted with digital signature. That means that both sender and receiver need to spend about $20/year to pay for digital signature on their email.
I understand that email is not a good medium to do therapy, but it is an excellent tool for scheduling and quick updates during the week.
I disagree.
I think a client can with clear intent and not 'looking for extra support' - email the therapist. I have emailed in a carefully balanced way (precise and to the point with a necessary intent) and it has been an aid to my in therapy sessions without a doubt.
My therapist never emails back (unless it's regarding an appointment)but what I write is remembered and incorporated as necessary to the therapy process.
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