kris,
about writing to alters...I have done this. What I have done is start with a fresh page, and written down an introduction and a question. Like Hi I am Debbie and I would like to thank whoever helped me drive home from therapy yesterday. Do you have anything you would like to say?
Then I just clear my mind and hang out with the pen and paper. Sometimes I switch the pen to my left hand but not always.
Hope this gives you some helpful ideas.

Debbie51