I guess I do some writing therapy now that you two mention it. I'm constantly sending emails to my therapist and psychiatrist. It usually helps me work through my response to things and why I'm having that response. It also helps me keep connected to them since I can't see them as often as I should. I only wish they could write back, but ... I know why they don't. Confidentiality for one of them and fear of writing and lack of time for the other. (Side Note: I get on my psychiatrist's case sometimes about the bad writing fear that he constantly uses as an excuse not to pursue certain things he's interested in. You don't get better at something if you don't ever do it. Rolling my eyes.)

You're also right about it slowing things down - really what it can do for me is put up a wall to separate me from my emotions, but this is good when they are too strong for me. I do use intellectualism as a defense though. On the other hand, sometimes I discover things and become emotional when I'm writing. So I guess it goes both ways.

PS - in group tonight