How should termination of therapy be conducted?

• A. Terminate abruptly when progress is slow.
• B. Terminate after clients sign a release form.
• C. Provide a clear plan, discuss transitions, referrals if needed, and ensure client safety.
• D. Terminate only when the therapist is ready to take a vacation.

Answer: (C)

Termination should be a planned, collaborative part of therapy, not something done suddenly. The best approach involves a clear ending plan that the client and therapist develop together, including a review of what has been achieved and what remains, and a decision about when ending is appropriate. It also requires discussing transitions, such as arranging referrals or identifying continuing supports if ongoing intervention is needed, and ensuring client safety by assessing risk, creating a safety plan, and providing information about crisis resources. Documenting the plan and following up as appropriate helps maintain continuity of care and reduces the feeling of abandonment. Abruptly ending because progress is slow, or relying on a release form alone, or ending to accommodate the therapist’s schedule, misses essential clinical and ethical considerations and can undermine the client’s well-being.