What to Know About Therapy Termination

The conclusion of therapy can be a satisfying event with lasting effects on the client and therapist. A successful termination presents a chance for resolution. Together, the client and therapist take stock of the personal development that has gradually occurred throughout the course of treatment—a development that may have gone unrecognized if attention hadn't been brought to it. 

In actuality, termination begins far before therapy is finished. The therapist will start laying the framework for the termination in the very first sessions by establishing specific therapeutic objectives and outlining therapy as a time-limited procedure. Termination will be mentioned more often as the therapeutic alliance draws to a close. The therapist will highlight the client's development and assist them in coming up with a strategy to deal with problems down the road.

Typically, therapy ends when a client meets the objectives listed in their treatment plan. But this choice must be made using professional judgement.

Clients occasionally express their readiness to stop therapy because they are happy with the progress they have made. They might inquire as to how many sessions or how long they need to continue seeing the therapist. Sometimes clients will give hints that they are prepared to end the relationship subtly. These could include putting other obligations ahead of therapy, postponing appointments, or skipping assignments.  

Some of the signs that a client might be ready for termination are - 

1. The client continues to see a huge reduction in symptoms or problems connected to their presenting issue.
   
   
2. The client no longer needs mental health counseling, in the opinion of the clinician's expertise.
   
   
3. Other methods of treatment are preferable for any lingering symptoms or issues (e.g. medication management or a support group).

Some patients can be hesitant to quit their therapy. They may look forward to the routine of attending regularly scheduled sessions or worry that they won't be able to sustain their successes on their own. Find out why the client is reluctant to terminate the relationship and what may be done to make them feel prepared. The "fading out" technique, which gradually lowers the frequency of sessions, is frequently helpful in these situations.

A WORD FROM SOCIALLY SOULED

The process of parting ways with a client can either be simple and professional, or it can be more emotional. The client could feel a variety of things, from pride, satisfaction, and a sense of independence to melancholy and a sense of loss. Confirm the client's feelings by allowing them to express themselves.

The responses from a therapist could differ just as much. Reward the client for their diligence in therapy and be proud of the progress you two made together.