This has been a problem of mine as well. It is awful sitting there with something to say and open your mouth only to have your chest tighten and throat constrict and no words come out. I would sit there trying to speak and just not be able to do so. I think for me it had to do with abandonment. If I said something that displeased my parents I didn't get in trouble, I got ignored. They wouldn't talk to me. As a young child this was unbearable. It felt like I became an ghost. I lacked substance and could disappear at any moment. As an adult I realize that they didn't do this on purpose. They were just messed up human beings. Anyway...

Things are getting better though. I am working hard on it in therapy. I started by writing stuff out and having my T read it. Then I would write it and read it out loud. Now, with a little bit of coaxing from my T, I usually am able to say it without writing it. I am also able to get into a seperate state...persona...that allows me to talk about job issues with my boss and such.
Carrie