How to Successfully End Your Therapy: A Guide for Effective Communication and Closure

Understanding Your Reasons for Termination

Deciding to stop seeing your therapist is a significant decision, and it’s important to understand your reasons for the termination. Are you Feeling that you've achieved what you set out to achieve in therapy and want to stop for now? Not feeling progress and considering taking a break to see how you get on? Feeling the relationship isn’t working and not trusting the therapist? Each of these scenarios involves different approaches and considerations. Termination should be done professionally and with respect for the therapeutic relationship.

Termination Process

The process of terminating therapy typically involves the following steps:

Informing the Therapist

You can terminate therapy verbally or in writing. The email or letter should clearly state your intention and provide a final session to review any unexplored matters. Here is an example of how you might phrase an email to your therapist:

Email:

Subject: Ending Our Sessions

Dear [Therapist's Name],

Unfortunately, I am not getting the help I need from our sessions which is therapy, not just a conversation. Therefore, I am going to find someone else to do them. I wish you the best of luck in the future, hoping that two dogs can learn new tricks.

Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Settling Any Balances

Make sure you settle any outstanding balances or payment issues. Most therapists will provide a final invoice or settle accounts before you end your therapy.

Cancellation Policy and Notice

Always check the cancellation policy of the therapist. Some may require a minimum notice period, while others allow immediate termination. It’s important to respect any clauses to avoid financial penalties.

What to Expect During the Last Session

Your therapist will likely suggest one last session to review what you have covered and to prepare you for any potential future setbacks. This is standard practice and helps ensure that you leave therapy feeling prepared and supported.

Preparation and Closure

Plan Ahead

If you feel you’ve achieved your goals in therapy and wish to stop, you might benefit from having a final session to discuss your progress and what steps you’ll take next. Your therapist can provide useful insights and further support.

No Progress and Break

If you aren’t seeing progress, taking a break can be beneficial. You can still have a final session to discuss your progress, feelings, and plan for moving forward.

Untrustworthy Relationship

If you feel your relationship isn’t working and you don’t trust the therapist, it’s perfectly okay to terminate therapy without giving a reason. Simply contact the therapist and inform them that you are ending the sessions and do not wish to schedule any further ones. Be sure to follow any cancellation policies to avoid financial penalties.

Key Steps to Successful Termination

Clear communication about your intentions. Resolving any financial matters. Respecting the therapy cancellation policy. A final session to discuss progress and closure. If needed, finding a new therapist to continue your journey towards mental health.

Conclusion

Ending therapy can be a daunting process, but it can also be a positive step towards your personal growth. Remember, the decision to terminate therapy is yours and it’s important to approach it with care and consideration. If you approach the process with a plan and the support of your therapist, you can ensure a smooth transition and closure.

Finding New Therapy

If you decide to find a new therapist, it’s important to do your research. Look up reviews of therapists online and ensure they are competent and suited to your needs. You don’t have to justify your decision to find another therapist; simply trust your instincts and seek the best possible care for yourself.

Final Advice

Whichever reason leads you to end therapy, remember that you are in control of your mental health journey. If you need additional support or guidance, consider reaching out to a trusted friend or family member, or a mental health professional for advice.