Once upon a time, I told a counselor I’d like to schedule extra sessions as I was going to be away from therapy for a while. She asked: why do you think more will help more?
I think this is related to the hydraulic theory of mind – the idea that somehow emotions ‘build up’ (like a fluid), and need to be expressed (like a gland). And, you know, if you see the therapist more often, maybe the swamp will be pumped out a bit faster.
Maybe a better analogy is to a coach: somebody who helps you practice from time to time, so that you practice the things right on your own.
There’s a ‘mirror’ element to therapists as well: they reflect what’s on your mind in a slightly altered way that might help you see it differently.
Not an entirely baked thought I think, but maybe good enough for pudding.
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