Is it ever okay to email a provider "small-talk" in between sessions?  I am talking about someone that sees you say 3 to 4 times a month.

It depends on the provider. I, for one, dont mind it a bit! I have several gents that I enjoy hearing from in between sessions. However, its usually just short How are you? emails. Just kinda touching base and letting each other know how you're doing. I have some that send me jokes, etc. But, these are gents that I see maybe once or twice a month.