What Is Email Therapy? A Gentle Way to Work

When speaking out loud feels overwhelming or fast-paced, email therapy offers a quieter, more spacious way to work.

As a person-centred therapist who supports socially anxious adults, I know how exposing it can feel to be seen or heard in real-time. Email therapy allows us to build a therapeutic relationship through written words—at your own pace, in your own space, and without the pressure of live interaction.

Rather than talking face-to-face or over video, we work through email. You write to me in a message (up to 500 words), and I take time to carefully read and reflect on what you’ve shared. Then I reply (also up to 500 words) at an agreed time.

Each exchange can hold a lot—emotion, reflection, encouragement, insight—and there’s something quietly powerful about putting your experience into words.

How It Works

We’ll agree in advance when your email will land in my inbox—say, by Monday at 10pm. You’re welcome to send it earlier, but I won’t open it until the time I’ve set aside for you. This helps me offer you full, undivided attention. My reply will come to you within 48 hours.

You’ll receive an automated confirmation as soon as your message arrives, so you’re not left wondering.

We’ll also set a time for when to expect my reply. Knowing when a response is coming can feel containing and reassuring, even without real-time conversation.

What You’ll Need

We use ProtonMail, a secure, encrypted email platform that protects your confidentiality.

• It’s free to set up a ProtonMail account.

• You’ll need one to safely receive and send our therapy emails.

• I have a guide that will help you set this up if that is useful.

  
  

Each email—yours and mine—is capped at 500 words. This word limit helps keep things clear and digestible, without overwhelming you or the process. I have found that 500 words is a comfortable limit to do within 50 minutes - the amount of time we will both set aside each week to write our emails.

What Can You Share in Your Email?

You might use your message to:

• Reflect on something you’re struggling with

• Explore emotions or thoughts

• Process a difficult event

• Notice patterns or make sense of inner experiences

• Simply check in with where you're at

  
  

I’ll respond with care, compassion, and gentle curiosity—offering reflections, questions, and holding space for what you’ve shared.

Many clients choose email therapy as their ongoing, long-term therapeutic space. It’s not a stepping stone—it can be the therapy that works best for you.

Two Things to Be Aware Of

There are two common psychological effects that can come up in email therapy. I share them not to worry you, but to bring awareness so we can work with them gently.

1. The Black Hole Effect

This is the feeling that your email has disappeared into a void—especially while waiting for a reply.

You might wonder:

"Did I say too much?""What if she doesn’t respond?"

That’s why I use an automated email confirmation, so you know your message has been received. But even so, this feeling can arise—especially if you’re sharing something vulnerable. It’s very normal, and something we can explore together.

2. The Disinhibition Effect

Writing can make it easier to open up more deeply than you might in person. That can be a gift—it allows space for honesty and emotional expression.

But it can also leave you feeling exposed or uncertain after hitting send. If you experience a vulnerability hangover, you're not alone. It's part of the process, and we’ll make space to understand and care for it.

Is Email Therapy Right for You?

Email therapy might be a good fit if:

• You find it easier to express yourself in writing

• Real-time interaction feels overwhelming or draining

• You value space and time to reflect

• You prefer privacy and flexibility

• You’re looking for consistent, long-term support in a way that feels manageable

  
  

It is not the best option if you’re in acute distress or crisis and need immediate responses. This form of therapy works best with time, space, and a steady rhythm.

A Final Word from Me

Email therapy isn’t a lesser form of therapy—it’s just a different one.

It can be deep, reflective, and powerfully supportive over time. If you prefer writing to talking, or want a therapeutic space that feels more manageable and contained, it might be just right for you.

If you're curious, feel free to reach out at laura@laurawoodtherapy.co.uk. I'm happy to answer any questions or help you get started.

Warmly,

Laura