Peaches: I know the "not knowing" is very hard for you. But I think your T is telling you the truth. She hasn't made up her mind yet about whether or not she's going into private practice after she retires. She doesn't want to get your hopes up, but she doesn't want to tell you "no" for sure because she herself hasn't made up her mind yet.

She knows how important therapy with her is for you. Don't you think that she would tell you when she's certain what she is going to do? I think so!

I suggest bringing it up in your session when you are face to face. Then you won't have the chance for misunderstanding the email content.