[iScottM]

Sorry - this is my second post today but I really wanted to get this out.
My therapist allows me to call or email him during the week if I need to.
I never call, but I usually wind up emailing at least once a week, sometimes two or three times.
I am happy with my therapist and I have gained insights and been able to moderate and even change some behaviors.
But I hate that I feel the need to email him. It's like my own perceptions and feelings are not valid enough for me and I need him to grant me validity.
I sort of go in circles with this - I'm never sure if I am emailing because I really need to or I am just being clingy and perpetuating the feeling that I need other people to tell me what is real and what isn't.
It always leaves me feeling childish like I am just attention-seeking and being out of control.

It doesn't sound like you are being too clingy or crossing a line to me.
This is something you should talk to your T about. See what he thinks about your difaculty in differentiating real need from wht you consider "Clingy behavior".

[Maranara]

I understand "clingy" very well. We all need some sort of validation, and I don't think one or two emails is doing any harm. I have destroyed most of the friendships I've had due to clinginess and pushing away alternately. I understand. It is something you can conquer, but it will take time and a person or two who understands. Best of luck to you.

[piercepd]

Dude!

You have no idea how good it is to read someone say that!! Even on a good day, because I don't trust my own brain & can't work out how to deal with my own thoughts, I mail/text my... unofficial therapists (singing teacher & friend who is a psych nurse) about 12 times a day!! I'm hoping it's just to get the things out of my head before they fester there but I'm worried that it's clingy behaviour too, I can't message my ex so I just move on to message the next person!

And yeah, over the years I've burnt through many close friendships & relationships with it, Maranara!

[Fuzzybear]

I am "allowed" to call my shrink anytime. In fact, I have been 'ordered' to call her as part of my therapy. But I CAN'T.... It just feels sooooo awkward (so I called when I *knew* she would be out).

I would have no problem emailing. Online/texting/emailing seems more sterile. Less anxiety that way.

In relationships I am super clingy. Totally fearing abandonment. But with my shrink or even with people I know - I hate, hate, hate calling people. It scares the crap out of me.

[hawaii04]

Clingy is comforting. It may not always be the most suitable quality, and it can certainly interfere. But we can recognize those who are accepting of that need in us and also when we need to let go; I can think of other behaviors that are much less appealing and harmful. I think it's great to be able to have contact with your therapist when you need to ~ by all means, utilize those aids you are fortunate to have to help when indeed you must rely on something/someone.