Okay, everyone is going to probably pile on and say that I'm uncaring, but I have to say, why would any of us expect that our therapists would spend 55 or 60 minutes with us for less than they charge any other time? I GET it that meeting with my therapist on line (via Skype or any other online video mechanism) wouldn't be the perfect venue for me, but if it was offered because face-to-face wasn't possible, I think I would sincerely consider it, especially if I really needed that contact with my therapist.

I know that I'm thankful when my therapist goes on vacation but offers email access. It isn't what I want. I WANT her sitting near me and available. But I also know that she can't do that. She NEEDS a vacation. I hope you're not hearing this as dismissing how you feel, Rainbow Rose. I truly GET it that you're feeling abandoned and alone by this offer. But I hope you're able to step back and really think about what is offered. No ONE, certainly not me, wants to face a cancellation in their therapy. But if something else is offered, it can truly be viewed as a gift. I don't know your therapist, but I wonder if he/she offers this option to everyone.

I am also not saying that you shouldn't refuse this option if it isn't something you think will work for you. You are the only one that can decide that. I guess I'm just suggesting that you view it from a distance. Is this something that is offered all of your therapist's clients? Is he/she trying to maintain the connection? If he/she is there "present" for the full 50 or 60 minutes does that mean that he/she is not giving you her full attention? Should she not still get her fee? If it isn't for you, then you can decline and I think your therapist would understand. As much as we hate to admit it, our therapists need to be paid for their time and expertise. No, video isn't as perfect and comfortable as face to face, but it still time paid to us.