I have after session reactions that are improving, lessening in intensity and frequency.

She asked me soon after we started working together how I would feel about being able to call as often as I needed, to leave messages and that she would return a call to me *if I ask* (hard for me). I welcomed her offer and I do call, often in meltdown after session.(Last week twice on the way home from session! lol) When we do talk together on the phone it is just for a minute or two, agreeing that we will talk in session about what I'm distressed about. It is relieving and calming at a time I cant' do that for myself.

This last week she called and said to remember that there is no rush. I was upset that I didn't get to some things in session and I beat myself up too about how I "do" in session.

My opinion is that I need this and it's helpful. I don't worry about the boundaries around it too much because that's up to her. Recently after the holiday break she announced that 'phone calls will be brief'. She needs that for her she said. I'm glad she takes good care of herself. (That announcement felt punitive to me at ifrst but we talked about it several times and got it worked out)

I really wish I could email but she doesn't do that. I have taken writings and she's read them, but prefers to hear it in my voice. So, I journal to her and that helps me get from session to session too.

I think out of session support depends on so many things: what kind of therapy is being done, what's going on the the patient's life, where the patient is emotionally, if the between-session contact is in any way taking away from the in-session work or experience, as well as the practical things like the therapist's need for time away from their work and to nurture their own personal and professional lives.

I have worried about my actions. I have called her in such distress I could hardly speak. We have talked about that, where it comes from and she assures me it is okay (and she is not mad at me for calling so many times) and it will get better. I leave a lot in her hands now. It feels so good when I can do that.

I can so relate to your list!