I don't find the email exchange odd. I do think the therapist is punitive. I understand the 3 choices thing, but I think his seeming lack of support for you choosing the third option is manipulative and punitive. I don't think you are responsible for your parents' choices or responses to your decisions. I think making choices for yourself that are in your best interest is a better plan than trying to please others. Parents will survive - it is a choice, in my opinion, to let them guilt trip you or for you to feel excessively responsible for how they feel. I hope you can make the best choice for yourself.