Termination

No matter how long a client has come in for therapy, an attachment forms between client and counselor.  The therapeutic alliance is full of meaning.  Creating a safe space for clients to share their pain, shame, disappointments, and milestones, a secure relationship is experienced.  Sometimes, a counselor has to leave the relationship for a variety of reasons that do not have to do with the client.  Ranging from a job change, relocation, or even death, sometimes therapy with a specific provider comes to an end.  Not only is this a challenging transition for the client, it is also difficult for the counselor.  It is beneficial to prepare clients for the departure of their care-giver, providing proper closure for both involved in the therapeutic relationship.

Clients may experience difficulty moving on to a new therapist.  If this is the case, it is important to remember that the therapist you established a solid rapport with was once new to you.  You had the courage to give that person a chance.  It is possible to do so again.  Everyone brings something different to the table, the same goes for counselors.  It is quite possible that if you do decide to continue counseling with a new therapist, they may be able to provide something that your prior provider did not.  A new person may have a new perspective on things in the therapy room and offer a new take on therapy for you.  While this does not mean your last therapist did not care for you appropriately, it just means that everyone has something special to offer.

If you are currently in this situation, I encourage you to stay in therapy to see what new insight you can gain from a new person.  You will never lose the experience you had in the therapy room within your past therapeutic relationship.  Gaining trust in someone new may enhance your healing journey.

-Ashley Fazekas